The United States Air Force Academy insignia consists of the shield and scroll from the Air Force Academy crest that was designed by Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott while he was Dean of the Academy in 1963. The shield is divided into three horizontal sections—white, blue, and black—intended to represent clouds, blue sky, and outer space respectively, a meaning reinforced by the use of a white nebuly line because it always is meant to denote clouds in heraldry. In the white section are two obelisks which symbolize the upward motion associated with flight and the two missions of the Academy: Educational Development and Military Leadership training. A North Star in the black region represents the ultimate in achievements.
In addition to the shield and scroll that comprise the insignia, the crest also features several other design elements frequently found in USAF heraldry and insignias. These include an eagle with spread wings, symbol of the United States and its air power; a white cloud behind the eagle, and thirteen stars encircling the eagle, cloud, shield, and scroll. Also, the scroll on the crest is inscribed with the words “United States Air Force Academy,” while the patch’s text simply reads “USAF Academy.”