"Choose the Weather for Battle": The Origins, Evolution, and Achievements of Air Force Weather

Air Force Weather has experienced a long history of service in providing decision-makers with timely, accurate, and continuous meteorological observations and forecasts. The military has been collecting weather data in a formal manner since the early 1800s. With the rise to prominence during the 20^th Century of aviation in representing a new battlespace among the domains of warfare, the military formed a weather service dedicated to supporting air operations. Since its inception, Air Force Weather has proven essential to the successful prosecution of wars and other operations of national concern. This paper will trace the rise of Air Force Weather from its earliest beginnings as part of the Army through to its most significant achievements as an Air Force command.