41. Stevens’ the Men That Are Falling

Foundation of the Force: Air Force Enlisted Personnel Policy, 1907-1956

“…The fast progression almost daily of new systems in communications, radar, autoflight control, weapons, and delivery systems had to be absorbed quickly and still maintain the force in an operational ready status. 48 The Air Force's occupational distribution for 1945, 1953, and 1957 (Table 17) indicated a trend toward the highly technical specialties, the great need for administrative help during the expansion, and a decrease in less-skilled trades (food services, fire fighters, and military police). 49 Additionally, as aircraft weapon systems advanced technologically, old AAF specialties like aerial gunner approached obsolescence.…”

“…This forced the Army (the Air Corps was excluded) to reduce NCO and specialist strength and to freeze promotions until losses in personnel allowed it to meet these new grade limits. 48 For the Army, the Air Corps expansion was problematic and fueled a growing rift between airmen and the other combat branches. Though Congress authorized a larger Air Corps, both the executive and legislative branches between 1926 and 1935 opposed any increase in the size of the standing army.…”