New Air Staff badge recognizes Pentagon assignment

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WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  Members assigned to Headquarters Air Force staff here will soon have the option to wear a new badge.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley approved the design and development of the badge in September.

The basis for the Headquarters Air Force badge is Air Force heritage and the design incorporates many elements from the Department of the Air Force Seal.

The predominant colors of the badge are ultramarine blue and gold, the colors of the Air Force through transition from the Army Air Corps. At the center of the badge is an American bald eagle, a symbol of the United States and air power. The eagle is holding an olive branch and a bundle of 13 arrows, denoting the power of peace and war -- the heart of the Air Force mission. The Air Force shield is at the core of the eagle. 

A wreath, an ancient symbol of victory, encircles the badge and meets the old Army Air Corps symbol. The eagle holds a streamer with the Latin motto "E pluribus unum" that means "Out of many, one" and represents the original 13 colonies forming into one nation. 

Airmen currently assigned to Headquarters Air Force or who have been assigned to a qualifying position for at least 365 consecutive days are entitled to wear the badge. Wear of the badge is optional.

Officials expect the badge to be available in military clothing sales stores in June.