In addition to AFROTC or Academy commitments, AAS members must complete candidate training, attend meetings, and contribute to their respective Squadrons and ROTC detachments.

Doing so enhances the officer candidate experience of cadets as well as builds stronger leadership, organizational, and professional skills.

Arnold Air Society was first proposed as an idea for an extracurricular organization by ROTC cadets at the University of Cincinnati in the summer of 1947.

[1][2] After having their idea approved by active members of the Air Force, the cadets wrote a constitution for their new, honorary society.

This flower was adopted in 1956 because Mrs. Arnold, having been presented with a silver bud vase by the Air Force Association at their 1955 National Convention, said she knew what she would put in it: the "Crimson Glory" rose because it always reminded her of the Air Force since it had Japanese Beetles during World War II.

[3] The AAS motto is "The warrior who cultivates his mind polishes his arms" (Duc de Boufflers).

[7] The Arnold Memorial Scholarship is a cash award that is given annually, rotating between areas of the country, to the outstanding first-year member of eligible squadrons.

[3][5] Each prospective member must belong to a local AFROTC detachment and at least meet those academic and physical standards.