The United States Space Force is celebrating its 5th anniversary today. America’s newest military branch, officially founded on December 20, 2019, is responsible for defending American interests in the final frontier. Space Force provides a wide range capabilities.

“Through the command and control of all DOD satellites, satellite operators provide force-multiplying effects – continuous global coverage, low vulnerability and autonomous operations. Satellites provide in-theater secure communications; weather and navigation for ground, air and fleet operations; and threat warning.”

“Ground-based and space-based systems monitor ballistic missile launches around the world to guard against surprise missile attacks. A global network of space surveillance sensors provides vital information on the location of satellites and space debris for the nation and the world. Maintaining space superiority is an emerging capability required to protect U.S. space assets from hostile attacks.”

Military and civilian members of the Space Force are known as Guardians, a term that traces back to “Guardians of the High Frontier.” This was the command motto of Air Force Space Command, the organization that evolved into what we know today as the U.S. Space Force.

Elected officials from Alabama, many of whom are pushing to bring Space Command’s base of operations to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, posted on social media about the branch’s anniversary and impact.

RELATED: President Trump preparing to return U.S. Space Command to Huntsville, Alabama lawmakers report

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia), who represents the area of Redstone Arsenal, called Space Command a “revolutionary branch” of the U.S. military.

Happy birthday to the United States Space Force!

This revolutionary branch makes America safer and stronger, and I’m thankful for the Guardians that protect our interests in space. pic.twitter.com/DgMPwCtjft

— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) December 20, 2024

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) thanked Space Force for their role in national defense.

Happy 5th birthday to @SpaceForceDoD.

Thank you to the Guardians who protect our interests in Space.

Semper Supra – Always Above. pic.twitter.com/KNwpHdbE9Q

— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) December 20, 2024

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) referred to President Trump’s decision in 2020 to establish Space Force as a “visionary move.”

5 years ago today, President Trump established @SpaceForceDoD – a visionary move to protect America's interests in space. Proud of our Guardians who've made protecting America in the final frontier their core mission. Semper Supra! pic.twitter.com/jamcTEaAUt

— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) December 20, 2024

In a statement posted on X by the House Armed Services Committee Republicans, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) detailed the importance of Space Command.

.@RepMikeRogersAL, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released a statement honoring the fifth anniversary of the creation of the U.S. Space Force.

“The threats facing our nation have only grown more dangerous and more complex in the five years since the creation of… pic.twitter.com/lZdNfWXECj

— Armed Services GOP (@HASCRepublicans) December 20, 2024

Governor Kay Ivey wrote that she is excited for Space Force to finally “come to its rightful home” in Alabama.

Today, we celebrate the birthday of the @SpaceForceDoD!

Just a few years ago, this bold vision became a reality, thanks to the leadership of President Trump.

And one more thing…

I look forward to Space Command coming to its rightful home in Huntsville, Alabama! #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/HYX3IswIpr

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) December 20, 2024

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth pointed to the members of Space Command as a major reason the U.S. can “operate from a position of strength.”

Happy birthday to the US Space Force. Thankful for the brave men and women who ensure we operate from a position of strength. Ready for President Trump to return Space Command to its rightful home in Alabama. pic.twitter.com/Z28R0eNEMA

— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) December 20, 2024

The Space Force was established after President Donald Trump signed the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act into law. As of 2024, the Space Force has over 14,000 members

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten