United States Air Force Symbol

[1] It was unveiled in January 2000 following a period of research and planning,[2] and became official on May 5, 2004, four years after the Air Force first applied for trademark protection.

[4] The Air Force began testing the symbol in 2001 by affixing it to base entry signs, water towers, and some aircraft and vehicles.

[8] Following a 1999 recruiting shortfall, the Air Force desired to adopt a new symbol to represent the service for "all internal and external audiences.

[6] The Air Force hired New York advertising agency Siegel & Gale for "the task of researching and designing the new image, logo, and tagline.

"[3] The symbol was unveiled before its official adoption so the Air Force could test public opinion prior to making a final decision.

[2] Air Force headquarters released a memo, dated February 10, 2003, addressing the symbol's use on "Base Entry Signs and Water Towers," remarking that the use of the symbol "at base entry gates and on water towers has become widely accepted throughout the Air Force," and stating, "As our installations adopt the new sign criteria, we move closer to our goal of achieving a consistent professional 'first impression.

"[15][1] As mentioned above, the design is based on the classic "Hap" Arnold wings from the Second World War, and the modern style signifies the "present and future" capabilities of the service.

The globe also reminds us of our challenge as an expeditionary force to respond rapidly to crises and to provide decisive aerospace power, worldwide.