Department of the Air Force Esports Crowned Champions at Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Department of the Air Force Esports Championship

The Department of the Air Force (DAF) recently celebrated a monumental achievement in esports with the conclusion of the DAF Esports World Championship. This thrilling event showcased top-tier competition as Joint Base Langley-Eustis (JBLE) took home the championship title in the popular game Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Following a rigorous regional tournament that brought together skilled teams from various Air Force bases, the event culminated in an exciting final showdown where JBLE triumphed over Cannon Air Force Base in a spectacular grand finale.

The DAF Esports program has increasingly gained popularity, uniting airmen and guardians through competitive gaming. This year's tournament provided an exciting opportunity for base-versus-base competition, highlighting not only the skill but also the teamwork and resilience of the contestants. According to TSgt Jessica Crawford, Manager of DAF Esports, the Regionals truly showcased the best of competitive spirit across the force. Her statement reflects enthusiasm for the dedication and hard work put forth by the participants and their supporters.

The structure of the tournament included multiple championships, such as the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE), and the Continental U.S. (CONUS) championships, which led to the final championship round. The PACAF Championship took place from March 8 to 15 at Yokota Air Base in Japan, where Misawa Air Base secured victory. Each regional champion and runner-up, including teams from the CONUS Championship held in June at Patrick SFB in Florida, earned places in the World Championship.

This year’s World Championship unfolded from August 3 to 10, bringing together twelve exceptional teams that had battled through a series of group stages to earn their spot in the finals. A single-elimination finals bracket was employed for the climax of the tournament. In the end, JBLE showcased exemplary strategy and coordination, defeating Cannon AFB, while Buckley Space Force Base took home the third-place position. The competitive format not only amplified the excitement of the gaming experience but also offered spectators a chance to witness outstanding plays and strategic ingenuity from participating teams.

The recognition of the DAF Esports initiative extends beyond the championship itself. The program fosters teamwork, builds community, and enhances overall readiness across the Air Force. Partnering with organizations like USAA has been instrumental in supporting these competitive platforms, allowing airmen and guardians to connect with one another in a fun and engaging environment. The partnership emphasizes the commitment of USAA to serving the military community, spotlighting their role in enhancing morale and readiness.

As we reflect on the 2025 season, the inaugural DAF Esports World Championship stands as a landmark achievement in military esports, setting a precedent for future competitions. With airmen and guardians finding camaraderie through gaming, the DAF arc continues to contribute to the development of essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

Looking forward, the DAF Esports program is expected to expand even further, offering more opportunities for competitive gaming while building community among service members. As esports continue to thrive globally, the Department of the Air Force is set to be at the forefront, promoting healthy competition and relationship-building among its ranks. By harnessing the power of gaming, the DAF not only enhances the morale of its personnel but also reinforces a sense of unity and purpose across the force.