- Fantastic gift options for a military retirement party
- Commemorate Time Served with a Unique Sword or Gun Display
- Different Types of Collectible Swords
- Choosing the Perfect Military Sword Gift
- HISTORY OF SWORD ACCESSORIES
- The Early History of United States Military Edged Weapons Used in Combat
- The Knives of the Vietnam War
- Military Swords You Will Want to Add to Your Sword Collection
- How to Keep Your Knives and Swords in Excellent Shape
- Selecting the Best Military Sword Accessories
The U.S. Air Force Sword: A Brief History
Posted by Bryan on 12/12/2012
to U.S. Military Swords
Owing to the Air Force's birth out of the United States Army, their sword was the same as the one worn by Army NCOs for quite some time - students at the U.S. Air Force Academy still uses a saber, in fact. However, in keeping with the Air Force's proud, if relatively young, individual history, they now carry their own unique style of ceremonial armament.
The ceremonial sword used by the United States Air Force is, in many ways, a nod to the Army, being, in fact, a saber. Straight and tapering, the edges are dulled, so as not to cause injury during the occasions it might be worn. Care should be taken in the purchase, gifting, or use of the U.S. Air Force's sword, as regulations surrounding it are tenuous, unlike those in the Army or Marine Corps. Specific attention should be paid in order to make sure that the handle says "U.S. Air Force". You don't want to buy an Academy student's saber by mistake!
It should be noted that the saber-type sword is worn by enlisted men only, and that even they do not often wear it unless they are part of a specific ceremonial detail (funerals, honor guards, and so on). Officers, by contrast, if they wear one at all, wear the M1902 Army Officer's Saber.
Hopefully this short history of the U.S. Air Force's sword and its use and wear is sufficient to answer your questions. As always, when in doubt regarding military specifics, ask a service member!
