Erin Conaton was sworn in Monday as undersecretary of the Air Force, filling a post vacant since August 2007. “This is a great day for the Air Force,” said Secretary Michael Donley. He added, “Erin will be a tremendous asset. Her extensive congressional background, coupled with her experience on national security matters, will enable her to be an outstanding champion for our airmen.” Conaton comes to the Air Force from the House Armed Services Committee where she served since 2007 as staff director. President Obama nominated her back in November 2009. The Senate confirmed her nomination on March 4. “I am extremely honored and humbled by this opportunity to serve with the tremendous men and women of the Air Force,” said Conaton. She added that she resolves to be “a leader who reflects the core values of this great institution.” (SAF/PA report by MSgt. Russell Petcoff)
LIVE: Caine Leads Global Toast to the Doolittle Raiders
April 17, 2026
Continuing a 80-year-long Air Force tradition started by Gen. Jimmy Doolittle and his fellow Raiders in 1946, the Air & Space Forces Association, Air Force and Space Force units, and AFA members around the world are raising a glass to the anniversary of the legendary Doolittle Raid.