The United States Air Force came into existence in 1947. The distinctive color (flag) of the Air Force was established in 1951. The flag background is a special shade known as "Air Force blue." The central shield has a stylized thunderbolt symbol of the kind used in the Roman Empire. The blue shield appears over stylized white clouds known in heraldry as nebuly. The ring of 13 stars refers to the original states of the nation. A bald eagle, the national bird, stands at the top with its wings spread. Behind its head is an area of clouds similar to those appearing in the coat of arms of the United States. Annin Flagmakers takes special pride in producing high-quality American-made state, international, and military flags. All Annin Flagmakers flags are sewn in either South Boston, VA or Coshocton, OH. Our superior quality is time-tested and meets the requirements of the most discerning buyer. Nyl-Glo, Tough-Tex, and Bulldog are registered trademarks manufactured exclusively by Annin Flagmakers.