The longest serving Airman and the youngest Airman us a saber to cut the Air Force cake at Beale Air Force Base, California, Sept 17, 2017. The Air Force was officially recognized as a branch of service on Sept. 18, 1947. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Justin Parsons)

Airmen and their families gather for the Air Force Ball to celebrate its 70th anniversary at Beale Air Force Base, California, Sept. 17, 2017. The Air Force was officially recognized as a branch of service on Sept. 18 1947. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Justin Parsons)

Chief Master Sgt (ret.) Gary Maxwell gives a closing speech to Airmen and guests at the Air Force Ball at Beale Air Force Base, California, Sept. 17, 2017. The Air Force was officially recognized as a branch of service on Sept. 18, 1947.