Gen. Mark Welsh, Air Force Chief of Staff, issued his 2013 reading list for airmen. The list features 14 books, but is not limited to reading recommendations since it also includes seven films, 11 pieces of art, 10 songs, three photographers’ galleries, and seven TED talks. These selections “highlight our heritage and fighting spirit, as well as encourage innovation and forward thinking,” wrote Welsh in his introductory message. “We are the world’s greatest air force because of our airmen . . . and we must continue to strengthen that team,” he stated. “Take a look at the list and find something that grabs your attention. Hopefully it’ll expand your mind, and ultimately make our great team even better,” he concluded. (See also the 2012 list.)
Air Force Eyes New-Build F-16s to Boost Fighter Force
Sept. 16, 2026
The Air Force will consider acquiring new F-16 Fighting Falcon jets to answer capacity shortfalls in its aging fighter fleet, according to multiple people familiar with the matter. These discussions are happening as the Air Force is building its proposed fiscal 2028 budget and the five-year spending plan that goes…
