The Air Force Symbol is the official emblem of the U.S. Air Force: bold, angular wings meeting at a star inside a circle. The Air Force introduced it in 2000, and it became the official symbol of the service in 2004. Every part of it carries a meaning, from the wings to the three small diamonds. Here is what the Air Force Symbol stands for.
Where the Air Force Symbol comes from
The symbol keeps the core of the Air Force's heritage: the "Arnold" wings and the star with a circle. The wings are named for General Henry "Hap" Arnold, who commanded the Army Air Forces in World War II. The modern design updates that heritage for today's air and space force.
What each part of the symbol means
The wings
The stylized wings in the upper half stand for the enlisted men and women who are the strength of the force. They are drawn with sharp angles to show speed and power, and they are divided into six sections that represent the Air Force's distinctive capabilities.
The star
The star's five points stand for the members of the Air Force family: active duty, civilians, Guard, Reserve and retirees. The star also represents space as the high ground, and the officer corps that leads the force.
The sphere
The sphere inside the star represents the globe, a reminder of the Air Force's duty to protect the nation's freedom with global vigilance, reach and power.
The three diamonds
Three diamonds frame the star. They stand for the Air Force core values: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do.
An eagle and a medal
Look at the symbol as a whole and it shows two images at once. It can be read as an eagle, the emblem of the nation, and as a medal, representing valor in service to the nation.
The Air Force Birthday
The Air Force became a separate service on September 18, 1947, after President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act of 1947. Airmen and their families celebrate the Air Force Birthday every September 18.
Wearing the Air Force Symbol
Our Air Force jewelry is officially licensed by the U.S. Air Force, which licenses its products separately from the other branches and approves how its symbol is used. Carry the symbol every day with an Air Force ring, an Air Force pendant or an engravable Air Force ID bracelet, in 0.925 sterling silver or 10K or 14K gold. Our guide to sterling silver vs. 10K vs. 14K gold helps you choose the metal.
An Air Force ring or pendant marks the moments that matter: graduating Basic Military Training, Officer Training School or the Air Force Academy, a promotion, the Air Force Birthday or retirement. Parents, spouses and children also wear one to honor the Airman in their family.