New Mexico Admitted as 47th State
On January 6, 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state admitted to the Union.
Air Force
Death of Calvin Coolidge
On January 5, 1933, America’s 30th President, Calvin Coolidge, died suddenly of a heart attack. He’d led the nation through the notable economic growth of the Roaring Twenties.
Birth Of Aviator Jimmy Doolittle
James “Jimmy” Doolittle was born on December 14, 1896, in Alameda, California. A pioneering aviator with many “firsts” to his name, he’s best remembered as the leader and namesake of the “Doolittle” Raid on Japan during World War II.
First Air Force One Christened
On November 24, 1954, First Lady Mamie Eisenhower christened the first plane to be designated Air Force One.
First Flight of the P-51 Mustang
On October 26, 1940, the P-51 Mustang completed its first flight. It went on to take down more enemy planes than any other fighter in Europe and was the United Nations’ main fighter plane during the Korean War.
Women in Military Service for America Memorial
On October 18, 1997, the Women in Military Service for America Memorial (WIMSA) was officially dedicated in Arlington County, Virginia. This stamp was issued at the memorial’s dedication ceremony.
U.S. Air Force Established
After 40 years and two wars, the aeronautical division of the US military was established as its own branch, the Air Force, on September 18, 1947. Today, it’s the world’s largest air force.
Champions of Liberty Series
On August 31, 1957, the US Post Office issued an 8¢ stamp honoring Ramon Magsaysay, the first stamp in a new Champions of Liberty Series. The stamps honor patriots who struggled courageously to protect their homelands from tyranny and further the cause of freedom.
Battle of Guam
On July 21, 1944, US troops landed on Guam, initiating a three-week battle to recapture the island. Today, the people of Guam celebrate July 21 as Liberation Day.