This paper examines the state of the nation and the Air Force with regard to energy. First, it describes in detail the "perfect storm," or convergence of reasons why the problem of energy dependence deserves immediate and uncompromising attention. In short, there exists a three-pronged threat of environmental damage, market instability associated with crude oil depletion, and most importantly, energy security issues that must be addressed. The paper argues that energy independence is the answer. The US Air Force, as the single largest institutional consumer of oil in the United States, is in a position similar to that of the nation as a whole who, despite representing only about 5 percent of the world's population, consumes 25 percent of the world's oil. Both the United States and the Air Force are thus in positions of responsibility and poised to serve as an example for others. The second portion of the paper describes initiatives either already undertaken or planned by the Air Force to help in becoming more energy independent.
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