AFA Presents Phillip Meilinger with Lifetime Achievement Award

National Harbor, Md. — The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to retired Col. Phillip Meilinger, the former dean of the School of Advanced Airpower Studies, at the 2026 Air, Space & Cyber Conference on September 14. The prestigious award recognizes a lifetime of work in the advancement of aerospace.

Meilinger has made enduring contributions to the Department of the Air Force as an Airman, leader, educator, and intellectual. During 30 years of service as a command pilot, staff officer, and educator, he shaped how the Air Force understands airpower employment, operational concepts, and joint warfighting. As the first Dean of the School of Advanced Airpower Studies, he established a premier institution for developing strategic thinkers and advanced the study of operational art, airpower theory, and leadership.

A prolific author and historian, Meilinger’s books, including “10 Propositions Regarding Air Power and Bomber: The Formation and Early Years of Strategic Air Command,” have shaped generations of Airmen by advancing foundational concepts of airpower, air superiority, targeting, and strategic effects. His lifelong commitment to education, mentorship, and intellectual development has strengthened the Air Force and its future leaders.

The award was presented by AFA Board Chair Kathleen Ferguson and AFA President & CEO Lt. Gen. Burt Field, USAF (Ret.).