The official Air Force symbol is a stylized version of the Hap Arnold device, which was originally the insignia of the U.S. Army Air Corps that was introduced into Air Force uniform design in 1991. In 2000, the Air Force sought to create its first official symbol, one that would recall the service’s heritage while simultaneously inspiring excitement for lay ahead in the future of the Air Force. The final version, featured on this tie tack and clasp, was formally approved in 2004 and is a registered and trademarked symbol of the Air Force.
United States Air Force uniform regulations make the wear of tie tacks or tie clasps optional for any uniform on which the necktie is (or may be) worn. However, if tie tacks or clasps are worn, they must feature the official Air Force symbol (often referred to as the “Eagle device”), the “wing and star design (often called the “Hap Arnold device”) or the rank insignia of the wearer. Tacks and clasps are centered horizontally and between the bottom of the knot and the bottom of the tie.