The Past, Present, and Future of the Air Force's Future Total Force
Abstract
This project examines the history of the Total Force policy since its inception in 1970 through its implementation today in an effort to determine a future direction for the Air Force's Future Total Force initiative. It cites histories of the Air Force, the Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve to depict the historical reference for the Total Force policy. The project relies on the Congressional testimony by subject matter experts such as undersecretaries of defense, the Secretary of the Air Force, and the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, as well as the Air Force's own Future Total Force policy pamphlet to relate the current implementation and potential future direction for the policy. Analysis of the past implementation does offer lessons for future implementation of the policy. These lessons include the undeniable efficacy of the policy, given proper manning and funding of the Air Reserve Component. The vital importance of maintaining a symbiotic relationship between the active duty and Air Reserve Component represents another lesson of the history of the Total Force policy. Finally, realizing the limitations of the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve within the context of the Air and Space Expeditionary Force is a final lesson to consider when determining the future of the Air Force's Future Total Force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA460022
Entities
People
- Dennis P. Duffy
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology