I think another reason the AF was formed was to ensure air power would not get overlooked or minimized by the Army's and Navy's primary missions--boats and boots.

The ATO has solved many utilization issues in theater, but the need to "train and equip" is why the AF will remain independent arm, IMHO.

Plus, airplanes are only a part of the AF...the space weenies are getting more and more emphasis every day...that's probably the biggest reason the AF isn't going anywhere.