Wing's shield symbolizes air mission Published Sept. 24, 2007 By History Office 31st Fighter Wing AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy (AFPN) -- The 31st Fighter Wing shield symbolizes the long heritage of the unit's lineage. The emblem was originally approved for the 31st Pursuit Group (U.S. Army) on June 28, 1941, and for the 31st Wing on Dec. 13, 1951. The shield is divided into the colors of Air Force ultramarine blue and yellow by a wavy line symbolizing clouds. The blue alludes to the sky, which is the primary theater of Air Force operation, and the yellow refers to the excellence required of Air Force people. The wyvern, a mythological dragon, represents strength. It is depicted without legs to indicate that all of the unit's fighting is done in the air. In its scroll is the wing's motto: Return With Honor."