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Below is a comprehensive list of U.S. Air Force patch and patch related publications. For patch related publications, the publications listed contain substantial information about Air Force units, bases and/or programs which greatly assist collectors.
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For publications not available on-line, many of the publications listed include links to the author and/or publisher to aid in your search. Try contacting them directly to inquire on the availability of a particular publication. Most of the books can also be obtained through major on-line booksellers such as Barnes & NobleTM, Amazon.comTM and Books-A-MillionTM to name a few. Your local bookstore may also have these items available or may be able to order them.
Out-of-print books may also be obtained from various on-line booksellers -- Abebooks.comTM and AlibrisTM allow you to search the inventories of hundreds of used, rare and collectible book sellers.
Another great source for books is your local library. While you may not be able to buy the books from your library, you can borrow to your heart's content. If your local library does not have the item you are seeking, inquire about inter-library loan. Many libraries allow you to do an inter-library search and request on-line. Call your local library for details.
Ratings on this page are the opinion of USAFPatches.com only! Publications are rated 1-5 stars based on their applicability and usefulness to a U.S. Air Force patch collector. No stars indicate the publication has not yet been reviewed by the Webmaster. The scale represents:
Very Little Value to a USAF Patch Collector
Little Value to a USAF Patch Collector
Average Value to a USAF Patch Collector
Above Average Value to a USAF Patch Collector
Required for a USAF Patch Collector
Aeroemblem Collector Reference Series (10 Lithographs)
Publisher: Aeroemblem Publications Ltd.
25th Air Division - McChord AFB, Washington
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
27th Tactical Fighter Wing - Cannon AFB, New Mexico
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
50th Tactical Fighter Wing - Hahn AB, Germany
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
81st Tactical Fighter Wing - RAF Bentwaters/Woodbridge, United Kingdom
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
182d Tactical Air Support Group - Greater Peoria Airport, Illinois
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
301st Tactical Fighter Wing - Carswell AFB, Texas
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
325th Tactical Training Wing - Tyndall AFB, Florida
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
401st Tactical Fighter Wing - Torrejon AFB, Spain
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
432d Tactical Fighter Wing - Misawa AB, Japan
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
6200th Tactical Fighter Training Group - Clark AB, Philippines
Lithograph, 8.5" x 11" full color
Publication Date: 1992/1993
Series of lithographs detailing the patches of various USAF wings and groups to include their subordinate units.
Air Force Bases (2 Volumes)
Publisher: Center for Air Force History
Active Air Force Bases Within the United States on 17 September 1982
Author: Robert Mueller
Hardcover, 634pp
Publication Date: 1989
ISBN: 0912799536
"As of 1982, there were eighty-nine active Air Force bases in the United States. This volume provides historical information and statistics for each of these installations, including dates of activation, occupancy, closure, and transferal. Also listed are the units stationed at each installation, units of the chief support organizations, and the names of commanders."
Air Bases Outside the United States of America
Author: Harry Fletcher
Hardcover, 220pp
Publication Date: 1993
"This reference work contains an alphabetical listing of all active U.S. Air Force bases outside American territory, through the end of 1982. Under each installation are several entries, which include a description of the facilities, the names of the commanders, the identities of base operating and tenant units, the dates of American occupancy, and other distinguishing information."
Air Force Collecting: Patches, Medals, Badges, Insignia
Author: Cliff Cates
Hardcover and Paperback, 64pp
Publisher/Publication Date: M C N Press, 1982
ISBN: 091295843X (hardcover), 0912958448 (paperback)
Air Force Colors (3 Volumes)
Author: Dana Bell
Publisher: Squadron Signal Publications
Volume 1: 1926-1942
Paperback
Publication Date: 1997
ISBN: 0897470915
Volume 2: 1942-45
Paperback
Publication Date: 1997
ISBN: 0897471083
Volume 3
Paperback, 96pp
Publication Date: 1997
ISBN: 0897473760
Air Force Combat Units of World War II
Editor: Maurer Maurer
Hardcover, 506pp
Publisher: (1961 & 1983 Editions) Center for Air Force History; (Sept 1994 Edition) DIANE Publishing Co
Publication Date: 1961, 1983, July 1994, September 1994
ISBN: 0160021642 (83 ed), 0788112031 (Jul 94 ed), 0785801944 (Oct 94 ed)
GPO Stock Number: 008-070-00492-5
A listing of combat groups, wings, air divisions, commands, and air forces active during World War II. Lineage is provided for each unit, from the date of origin to about the mid-1950s. It also contains the components commanders, campaigns, aircraft, decorations, and the officially approved emblems. There is a partial on-line HTML Version available, courtesy of the New York Military Affairs Symposium.
Air Force Combat Wings: Lineage and Honors Histories, 1947-1977
Editor: Charles Ravenstein
Hardcover, 342pp
Publisher: Center for Air Force History
Publication Date: 1984
GPO Stock Number: 008-070-00519-1
ISBN: 0912799129
Compilation of lineage and honors histories of the Air Force-controlled combat wings of the post-World War II Air Force. Numbered wings from 1-999 are traced from origin to September 1977.
Air Force Heritage
Publisher: Air Force News Agency
Published by the Air Force News Agency back during the McPeak years, this document provides the guidelines used for preserving the historical Air Force units and includes short histories and emblems the original 13 combat air groups.
Air Force Instruction 84-105: Organizational Lineage, Honors, and Heraldry
Electronic, 29pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Headquarters, U.S. Air Force, 1998, 2004
The Air Force instruction that governs the design and use of Air Force emblems. Previous version.
Air Force Magazine Almanac Issue
Publisher: The Air Force Association
Publication Frequency: Every May
Published every May, the Air Force Magazine Almanac Issue has detailed information on the organization of the USAF, including base and command listings.
Electronic versions available courtesy of the Air Force Association:
May 2007,
May 2006,
May 2005,
May 2004, May 2003, May 2002, May 2001, May 2000
Air Force Missile Patches: Official and Unofficial, 1954-Present
Author:
Hardcover and softcover, 684pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Patriot Press, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
The only book that illustrates and describes all known Air Force ICBM, IRBM, and GLCM (including Matador, Mace, Snark, and BOMARC) patches. Nearly 400 pages with full-sized illustrations of almost 1300 missile and missile related patches, and 250 additional pages provide official descriptions, significance, dates of approval, and commentary.
Air Force Radar Patches
Author:
Softcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Patriot Press, 1998, 1999
Includes all known patches or emblems officially approved for USAF Aircraft Control and Warning Squadrons and Radar Squadrons. Contains over 300 full-size, black and white illustrations with official dates of approval and site locations. Handy appendices identify patches by mottoes and list motto translations.
Air Force Regulation 4-16: Air Force Address Directory (1 March 1989 Edition)
Softcover, 398pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Headquarters U.S. Air Force, 1989
Air Force Regulation containing a comprehensive listing of Air Force units and their addresses, including a breakdown by installation. (Previously known as Air Force Regulation 10-4.)
Air Heraldry
Author: Carl Mann
Hardcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Robert M. McBride and Company, 1944
Book detailing World War I and World War II Army Air Forces insignia. Includes black and white illustrations.
Air National Guard Pocket Patches (2 Volumes)
Author: Pete Bennett
Publisher: Pete Bennett
Original Publication
Softcover, 45pp
Publication Date: 1988
Supplement 1
Softcover, 19pp
Publication Date: 1990
Air Weather Service: Our Heritage 1937-1987
Authors: Rita M. Markus, Nicholas F. Halbeisen & John F. Fuller
Softcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Military Airlift Command, 1987
Excellent book detailing the history of the Air Weather Service. Includes lineage, honors and emblem pictures of weather units up to 1987.
Airborne Patches of the 55th Wing and Attached Aircrews
Author:
Softcover, 111pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Patriot Press, 1994
Airman Magazine Almanac Issue
Publisher: Air Force News Agency
Publication Frequency: Every January
The official magazine of the USAF published by the Air Force News Agency. The January edition, "The Book", provides a detailed snapshot of the Air Force including organizations, bases, weapon systems, commands, and tailcodes.
On-line HTML versions available courtesy of the U.S. Air Force: First Quarter 2007, January 2006, January 2005, January 2004, January 2003, January 2002, January 2001, January 2000, January 1999, January 1998, January 1997, September 1995
American Military Patch Guide: Army, Army Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Civil Air Patrol, National Guard
Author: James L. Morgan and Ted A. Thurman
Hardcover, 88pp or Paperback, 96pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Medals of America Press, 1998
ISBN: 1884452337 (hardcover) or 1884452329 (paperback)
"The world's most complete guide and reference on American Military Patches. This book covers World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait, Bosnia and Afghanistan. Over 3100 color patches and tabs pictured and identified. Covers the history of patches, US Army Patches, plus sections on the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, National Guard, Special Forces and Civil Air Patrol. This is the definitive work on United States shoulder sleeve insignia and patches!"
Air Training Command Organization: A 30 Year View 1943-1974
Authors: History and Research Division, Air Training Command
Softcover, 80pp
Publisher/Publication Date: History and Research Division, Air Training Command, 1974
Excellent reference work providing information on organizations that were a part of the Air Training Command from 1943-1974. Includes detailed lineage information. (Special thanks to Michael Brown for providing a scanned copy)
Battle Colors: Insignia and Aircraft Markings of the Eighth Air Force in World War II (2 Volumes)
Author: Robert A. Watkins
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing
Volume 1: (VIII) Bomber Command
Hardcover, 128pp
Publication Date: March 2004
ISBN: 0764319876
Volume 2: (VIII) Fighter Command
Hardcover, 144pp
Publication Date: September 2006
ISBN: 0764325353
"Relying heavily upon visuals, Battle Colors fills a long standing void in the annals of the Eighth Air Force during World War II. This volume focuses on all forty-eight Bomb Groups comprising the Eighth and features color illustrations depicting the evolution of all fuselage, wing and tail markings assigned to the individual units. Details concerning the proper size, placement, color and configuration of all tactical markings of U.S. Bomber Command are addressed. Group and squadron combat insignia as well as airfield location maps for each unit are also depicted. All bombardment units incorporated within the Eighth are indexed and easily cross-referenced by squadron, group, wing and division assignments. Additionally, all major components comprising the Eighth have been organized into quick reference organizational flow charts that show the actual order-of-battle for the "Mighty Eighth". This book is an invaluable tool for anyone with an interest in the history of the U.S. Eighth Air Force in World War II."
Cold War Legacy: A Tribute to the Strategic Air Command, 1946-1992
Author: Alwyn T. Lloyd
Hardcover, 760pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Pictorial Histories Publishing Company, 2000
ISBN: 1575100525
"A Cold War Legacy is a tribute to Strategic Air Command spanning the years of 1946-1992 when the command was disestablished. Each chapter sets the stage for what is to follow, describes the significant events during that period, and concludes with an overview. From the second chapter on, there are tables at the end which list the first and last deliveries for each new weapons system, phase-outs of the weapons systems, and combat unit gains and losses during that period. Numerous appendices provide biographies of the 13 leaders of SAC, listings of top-level staff officers and senior enlisted advisors, alert rates, weapons systems inventories throughout the years, combat unit and equipment, competition winners, major awards, Hot War statistics, and base locations."
Combat Squadrons of the Air Force in World War II: History and Insignia
Editor: Maurer Maurer
Hardcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Zenger Publishing Company, 1983
ISBN: 0892010975
A listing of the lineage and honors of 1226 combat squadrons active between December 7, 1941 and September 2, 1945. Beginning with the 1st Aero Squadron, organized in 1913, the book gives an official statement of lineage. Also included are data on assignments, stations, aircraft, operations, service streamers, campaign participation, decorations, and emblems.
Combatant Wings of the Tactical Air Forces
Author: Maj William G. Yoachim
Softcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Air University, 1978
The Comprehensive Guide to United States Air Force Pocket/Shoulder Insignia Mottos (2 Volumes)
Author: Jerome Polder
Publisher: Aeroemblem Publications Ltd.
Original Publication
Softbound, 261pp
Publication Date: 1985
ISBN: 0961545631
Supplement One
Softbound, 204pp
Publication Date: 1994
ISBN: 0961545674
"The Motto books contain over 4,000 USAF mottos with the correct identification and over 2,000 USAF unit terms and abbreviations with proper designations. Plus much more: Trophy insignia; Pilot & Navigation Class insignia; Aircraft, Rocket, and Missile names and identifier designations; Korean "K" site numbers and base locations; PAVE Series insignia with brief descriptions; and over 1,000 Latin, French and German USAF unit mottos translated into English."
The Comprehensive Illustrated Guide to United States Air Force Pocket/Shoulder Insignia (12 Volumes)
Author: Jerome Polder
Publisher: Aeroemblem Publications Ltd.
Volume 1 - Units Numbered 1 to 40
Softbound, 240pp
Publication Date: 1985
ISBN: 0961545658
Volume 2 - Units Numbered 41 to 130
Softbound, 234pp
Publication Date: 1986
ISBN: 0961545615
Volume 3 - Units Numbered 131 to 410
Softbound, 238pp
Publication Date: 1986
ISBN: 0961545623
Volume 4 - Units Numbered 411 to 703
Softbound, 238pp
Publication Date: 1987
ISBN: 096154564X
Volume 5 - Units Numbered 704 to 4042
Softbound, 238pp
Publication Date: 1988
ISBN: 0961545658
Volume 6 - Units Numbered 4043 to End
Softbound, 168pp
Publication Date: 1987
ISBN: 0961545666
Supplement 1 - Patches not shown in Volume 1
Softbound, 230pp
Publication Date: 1996
ISBN: 0961545690
"This book series has already become THE AUTHORITY on USAF patches, and continues to gain wider acceptance each day. They have been bought and are utilized by such organizations as the USAF Simpson Historical Research Center of Air University, the Smithsonian Institute, the U.S. Army Department of Heraldry, and even the Library of the C.I.A. The illustrated guides each contain roughly 1,350 USAF insignia pictured in black and white. Insignia are laid out numerically and alphabetically, with an average of six per page."
Insignia of the Persian Gulf
Softbound, 68pp
Publication Date: 1994
ISBN: 0961545682
325 patches in full color plus historical text lifted directly from the DoD Report to Congress on the Gulf War. Contains very extensive listing of units that participated in the Persian Gulf War, or have rotated in and out of the "sand box" area since. This is the most informational data on Air Force unit participation published to date.
Insignia of the Phabulous F-4 Phantom
Softbound
Publication Date: 1998
Insignia of the F-16 Fighting Falcon Swirls
Softbound
Publication Date: 1998
Pizzas, Gaggles & Wing Kings Volume 1 (Units Numbered 1 to 99)
Softbound, 164pp
Publication Date: 2004
Pizzas, Gaggles & Wing Kings Volume 2 (Units Numbered 100 to End, A-Z)
Softbound, 160+pp
Publication Date: 2005
Decorations, Medals, Ribbons, Badges and Insignia of the United States Air Force: The First 50 Years
Author: Anthony Aldebol
Hardcover & softcover, 144pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Medals of America Press, 1998
ISBN: 1884452205 (hardcover) and 1884452213 (softcover)
Illustrated work on all the decorations, medals, badges and insignia of the AAF and USAF. Loaded with illustrations and details including complete color plates of all medals, ribbons, badges, insignia and ranks.
Disney Don's Dogtags: The Best of Disney Military Insignia from World War II
Author: Walton H. Rawls
Hardcover, 1st ed., 96pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Abbeville Press, Incorporated, 1992
ISBN: 1558594019
A nostalgic look at Disney's humorous contribution to morale. Swamped with request to use their cartoon characters in military insignia, the Disney Studio set up a special group to design emblems for all branches of the service - American and Allied. The result was some 1200 delightful insignia, the best of which appear in this volume.
Defenders of Freedom Poster Series (4 posters)
Publisher: Troutdale Aerodrome
#1 - USAF F-4 Phantom II
Poster, full color, 190 patches
Publication Date: Unknown
#2 - USAF F-15 Eagle
Poster, full color, 129 patches
Publication Date: Unknown
#4 - USAF F-102 Delta Dagger and F-106 Delta Dart
Poster, full color, 180 patches
Publication Date: Unknown
Series of posters featuring unit, mission and aircraft patches related to various major USAF fighter aircraft. The other poster in the series features the USN/USMC F-4 Phantom II.
Distinctive Insignia of the U.S. Army Air Forces 1924-1947
Author: Joseph M. Massaro
Hardcover, 1st ed. (1991 Supplement), 158pp
Publisher/Publication Date: International Publishing Company, 1987 (Supplement - 1991)
Excellent book on U.S. Army Air Forces distinctive insignias (DIs). Includes black and white illustrations of all insignia described.
F-16 Flying Colors
Poster
Publisher: Lockheed Martin
Published by Lockheed Martin, this poster features patches from USAF Active, Guard, and Reserve F-16 units as well as international F-16 units. Previous Version.
Fakes and Reproductions of the Vietnam War
Author: Gilbert W. Burket
Publisher: Gilbert W. Burket
Volume 1, American Made Cloth Insignia
CD-ROM, 220pp
Publication Date: 2001
ISBN: 0-9713373-0-6
Volume 2, Asian Made Cloth Insignia
CD-ROM, 404pp
Publication Date: Unknown
With rising prices in the collectors market, reproduction militaria from the Vietnam era have flooded the market. This book documents some of the more common reproductions of cloth insignia made by US repro artists during the 1980's and 1990's. Over 400 patches are illustrated. Included is an examination of techniques used by reproduction artists, a discussion about authenticating material from the Vietnam era, and general tips on how to guard against reproductions.
A Guide to Air Force Heraldry
Authors: William M. Russell (1996 Edition); Julian C. Godwin (2002 Edition)
Publisher/Publication Date: Air Force Historical Research Center, 1996, 2002
This document provides basic background on emblem design and terminology. Previous version: 1996.
A Guide to Air Force Lineage and Honors, 2d Edition, Revised
Authors: Charles A. Ravenstein
Softcover, 156pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Air Force Historical Research Center, 1984
Excellent detailed overview of Air Force organizational structure and Air Force policies regarding unit lineage and honors.
A Handbook of Aerospace Defense Organizations: 1946-1980
Authors: Lloyd H. Cornett, Jr and Mildred W. Johnson
Softcover, 189pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Office of History, Aerospace Defense Center, 1980
Excellent reference work providing information on organizations that were a part of the Air/Aerospace Defense Command. Includes detailed lineage information. (Special thanks to Michael Brown for providing a scanned copy)
Historical Highlights: The United States Air Forces in Europe 1942-1997, 55th Anniversary Edition
Authors: Dr. Thomas S. Snyder and Dr. Daniel F. Harrington
Softcover, 334pp
Publisher/Publication Date: United States Air Forces in Europe Office of History, 1997
This publication provides a chronology of USAFE from its inception to 1997 including unit activations/inactivations.
History and Lineage Of the F-117A Stealth Fighter Organizations
Paperbound
Publisher/Publication Date: 37th Fighter Wing Office Of History, 1991
Excellent reference work put together by the 37th Fighter Wing Historian's Office on the F-117A organizations. Contains complete lineages and emblem information for the organizations. Special thanks to the 49 FW/HO for providing a copy. Converted to PDF by USAFPatches.com.
History of Air Education and Training Command, 1943-2002
Authors: Thomas A. Manning, Dr. Bruce A. Ashcroft, Richard H. Emmons, Ann K. Hussey and Dr. Joseph L. Mason
Softcover, 386pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Headquarters Air Education and Training Command Office of History and Research, 2005
Comprehensive chronological history of Air Education and Training Command including unit information and a detailed listing of AETC bases. This is an updated version of the publication History of Air Training Command, 1943-1993 which was published in 1993 by the same office.
Intercom Magazine Almanac Issue
Publisher: Air Force Communications Agency
The October issue of this magazine provides a detailed snapshot of the Air Force communications community including a comprehensive list of units.
Electronic versions available: January 2007, October 2003, October 2002, October 2001, October 2000 courtesy of the Air Force Communications Agency.
An Introduction to Insignia Collecting
Editor: William K. Emerson
Spiralbound, 46pp
Publisher/Publication Date: American Society of Military Insignia Collectors, 2007
Published by ASMIC, this volume covers some of the basic of insignia collecting to include storage and display as well as some basic information on patches.
Lineage and Honors of the Operational Weather Squadrons
Authors: Air Force Weather History Office
Electronic, 22pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Air Force Weather History Office, 2003
This brochure has complete lineage and honors information for every operational weather squadron. Current as of March 2003.
The Mighty Eighth: Warpaint and Heraldry
Author: Roger Anthony Freeman
Hardcover, 160pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Arms & Armour Press, 1998
ISBN: 1854093738
"See the insignia, markings, camouflage, and colors of the 1939-45 air squadrons in photographic detail! Because of the dearth of color photography at the time, most of these particulars have appeared only in artwork. Yet these 350 genuine images show the bright red engine cowling rings, yellow propeller bosses, and gray paint of many World War II aircraft. An exhibit of group and squadron insignia reveals humor, individuality, and attitude."
Military Patches
Softcover, 144pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Books Nippan, 1999
ISBN: 4766332288
Japanese language book that features patches from all services in full color. Numerous examples of Air Force patches are pictured.
National Geographic Magazine - Insignia and Decorations of the U.S. Armed Forces
Author: Gilbert Grosvenor
Magazine
Publisher/Publication Date: National Geographic Society, 1943 (1st Edition) & 1944 (2d Edition)
One of the most comprehensive volumes available about World War II insignia from all the services. First edition features 1,701 insignia in full color. Second edition features 2,476 insignia in full color.
The Newsletter of the American Society of Military Insignia Collectors (Bi-Monthly Publication)
Publisher: American Society of Military Insignia Collectors
"The Newsletter carries the classified or display advertisements of members selling or seeking insignia and related items, as well as Society announcements and notices of regional and national insignia or militaria shows."
Nighthawks: Insider's Guide to the Heraldry and Insignia of the Lockheed F-117A Stealth Fighter
Author: Patrick A. Blazek
Paperback, 80pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Schiffer Publishing, 1999
ISBN: 0764306812
"This book details the heraldry of the Stealth Fighter beginning 10 years prior to its history-making flights over Baghdad during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. It includes actual photos of many rare F-117A patches produced only for those intimately involved in the F-117A Program. Information dealing with the development of these patches and explaining their symbology are provided. It's also about the people and camaraderie involved. As a bonus, this book contains history and lineage of patches produced during the Lockheed Product Excellence Program's existence for the Engineering and Manufacturing organizations concealed deep within the walls of the highly secretive Skunk Works."
Organization and Lineage of the United States Air Force
Author: Charles A. Ravenstein
Paperback, 77pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Center for Air Force History, 1985
ISBN: 091279917X
"A survey of the organizational evolution of the modern Air Force, from the earliest military aeronautical units to the complex, multi-mission USAF of today. The author describes how the Air Force originated and how it changed organizationally to accomplish its defense mission. Lineages are given for upper echelon organizations, commands, separate operating agencies, direct reporting units, and air forces. A special full-color section displays the official emblems of organizations (numbered air force and above) current as of 1983."
Pacific Air Forces, 1944-1994: Fifty Years in Defense of the Nation >
Authors: Timothy R. Keck
Softcover, 354pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Office of History Headquarters Pacific Air Forces, 1994
This publication provides a chronology of PACAF from its inception to 1994 including unit activations/inactivations, major units assigned and a list of bases.
Poised for the New Millennium: The Global Reach of the Air Mobility Command A Chronology
Author: Robert deV. Brunkow with Kathryn A. Wilcoxson
Electronic, 86pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Air Mobility Command History Office, 2001
This publication provides a chronology of AMC from its inception to September 2000. Of interest to the patch collector is the section detailing assigned wings, groups, and aviation squadrons.
Republic's A-10 Thunderbolt II
Author: Don Logan
Hardcover, 240pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Schiffer Publishing, 2000
ISBN: 0764301470
"This book chronicles the story of the A-10, including program history, aircraft paint schemes, all units operating the aircraft and their markings, and selected nose art and ladder door art. Over 100 colorful official and unofficial patches of the units and combat operations involving the A-10 are included. The book also includes a description of the aircraft, its systems, and weapons."
Silver Wings, Pinks and Greens (2 Volumes)
Author: Jon A. Maguire
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing
Silver Wings, Pinks and Greens: Uniforms, Wings and Insignia of USAAF Airmen in World War II
Hardcover, 192pp
Publication Date: 1994
ISBN: 0887405789
"This new look at the uniforms and insignia of the USAAF during the World War II years covers a broad range of clothing, collar insignia, rank insignia, shoulder/sleeve insignia and squadron patches. Additionally, there is an in-depth examination of wing qualification badges. Actual items are presented in nearly 600 illustrations in full color, and also as they appeared in actual war-era photos. Actual uniform regulations and illustrations from the 1943 and 1944 Officers Guides are also provided. Silver Wings, Pinks & Greens will be a useful addition to the libraries of collectors, historians, modelers and veterans alike."
More Sliver Wings, Pinks and Greens: An Expanded Study of USAS, USAAC and USAAF Uniforms, Wings and Insignia 1913-1945 Including Civilian Auxiliaries
Hardcover, 392pp
Publication Date: 1996
ISBN: 0764300911
"Jon Maguire's book Silver Wings, Pinks & Greens was a tremendous success and set a new standard for American uniform and insignia references. Following its publication there still remained among collectors and historians a desire for more information. There was also an outpouring from many serious collectors who made available a wealth of items-the result, More Silver Wings, Pinks & Greens. This book of all new material greatly expands on the wing qualification badges, uniforms, and patches presented in the first book. Additionally, this work covers totally new areas including Civil Air Patrol, W.A.S.P.s, Air Transport Command, Factory Technical Representatives, and 'Yanks' in the RAF an RCAF. Other new areas presented are uniforms and insignia of the First World War era, and the 'Golden Age' of the 1920s-1930s. There is also a large section on Aviation Cadets and civilian contract flying schools and instructors. The book is presented in the detailed and thorough style typical of Jon Maguire's work. Original items are shown in over 1000 color photographs, as well as numerous unpublished period photographs showing the items as they were worn."
Squadron Insignia of the United States Air Force Academy
Author: P. Michael Sheridan
Softcover, 40pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Sheridan Publications, 1990
ISBN: 0962738808
This book illustrates and describes all U.S. Air Force Academy cadet squadron insignias since the Academy's opening in 1955.
Strategic Air Command Unit Mission and History Summaries
Authors: Major Rita F. Clark and CMSgt Herman F. Martin
Softcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Strategic Air Command Office of History, 1988
This book provides short histories of the SAC numbered air forces, air divisions, wings, and direct reporting units active in 1988.
Strategic Air Command Wings Poster Series
Publisher: Edugraphics.net
B-29 & B-50 Superfortress Wings
Poster, 18" x 24" full color
Publication Date: 2004
B-47 Stratojet Wings
Poster, 18" x 24" full color
Publication Date: 2004
B-52 Stratofortress Wings
Poster, 18" x 24" full color
Publication Date: 2004
"A magnificent set of full color posters honoring the bombardment and reconnaissance wings that helped to win the cold war. All follow the same format to permit being displayed individually or as a set. Each begins with a magnificent illustration of the aircraft and a brief operational history. The bulk of the poster is patches used by the Wings during the period they flew the aircraft. Under each a meticulously researched caption gives the unit name, its primary base, the years it flew the aircraft and its flying squadrons. An attractive addition to any decor plus an invaluable reference source, this 18" x 24" full-color poster celebrates the first planes flown by the Strategic Air Command and the Wings that flew them. We have produced these posters ourselves in cooperation with Strategic-Air-Command.com. Posters are printed in fade-resistant ink on hundred-weight, acid-free paper for years of viewing enjoyment."
Toons at War: World War II Disneyana Collectibles
Author: David Lesjak
Spiralbound, 186pp
Publisher/Publication Date: David Lesjak, 2003
ISBN: 0968880908
One of the most comprehensive works around on Walt Disney's contributions to the war effort during World War II. Includes a chapter cover Disney designed insignia.
The Trading Post (Quarterly Publication)
Publisher: American Society of Military Insignia Collectors
"The Trading Post is a quarterly journal that contains a wealth of information on all aspects of U.S. and foreign insignia. It includes articles from members, illustrations of old and new emblems as well as occasional special color sections of American or foreign insignia. Each issue carries a column that illustrates unidentified insignia and lists the identities supplied by members of those from earlier columns. Back issues are available for purchase by Society members and non-members, members receiving a discount." Check out the ASMIC website publications section for back issue listings.
U. S. Air Force Air Power Directory
Editor: David Herbert Donald
Paperback, 232pp
Publisher: AIRtime Publishing, 1995
ISBN: 1880588161
"The most complete and spectacular reference work on today's USAF. Full briefing, every warplane, technical specifications, bases, units, warfighting roles, weapons, order of battle, deployment, organizations, and tailcodes."
USAF F-15 Eagles: Units, Colors and Markings
Author: Don Logan
Hardcover, 304pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Schiffer Publishing, 2000
ISBN: 0764310607
"After twenty-five years of service with the USAF, the F-15 is still the most effective air superiority fighter in the world today. In addition, the F-15E Strike Eagle has taken over the F-111’s role as the USAF’s Strike Fighter. This book chronicles, with over 750 color photos, the story of the F-15A, B, C, D, and E. The book includes F-15 program history, prototype and operational aircraft paint schemes, and unit markings of all USAF and Air National Guard units operating the F-15. A section on USAF F-15 MiG killers in both Operation Desert Storm and Operation Allied Force, with photos of all USAF F-15 MiG killers, is included. Over 130 colorful official and unofficial unit patches involving the F-15 are included. The book also includes a description of the aircraft, its systems, and weapons."
U.S.A.F. Fighter-Interceptor Squadrons & Wings
Author: Alec Fushi
Softcover, 400pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Alec Fushi, 2004
This book is a B&W photocopy of U.S. Air Force & Air National Guard FIS Patches. There are about 400 pages and 600+ patches copied in full size. Only the front & back covers are in color.
U.S.A.F. Tactical Fighter Wings & Squadrons
Author: Alec Fushi
Softcover
Publisher/Publication Date: Alec Fushi, 2004
This book is a B&W photocopy of U.S. Air Force Tactical Fighter Wing, Group and Squadron as well as Tactical Air Support Squadron and Tactical Reconnaissance Squadrons and Wing patches. Only the front covers is in color.
U. S. Air Force: The New Century
Author: Bob Archer
Paperback, 176pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Midland Publishing Limited, 2000
ISBN: 1857801024
"This book follows the evolution of the US Air Force, and looks at significant events and campaigns that have shaped its history. Extensive detail begins with current major commands and unit structure and commands that were in place in 1947. Of the almost 50 aircraft types in service or planned for the USAF, each are detailed including development, unit assignments, serial batches, and an explanation of the role of each variant. Bases are examined, with details of the units and types at each facility. A list of current tail codes is presented, along with command assignment, aircraft operated, and home base. For military history enthusiasts."
United States Air Force in Korea: Campaigns, Units, and Stations, 1950-1953
Editor: Judy G. Endicott
Softcover, 186pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Air Force History and Museum Programs, 2001
GPO Stock Number: 008-070-00492-5
"Companion volume to 'The USAF in Korea: A Chronology, 1950-1953.' Provides information on the ten combat campaigns of the Korean War and gives an organizational view of tactical and support organizations carrying out combat operations. Locates organizations or elements of organizations at their stations in Korea during the war."
United States Air Force Unit Designations Since 1978
Author: Brian Rogers
Paperback, 260 pages.
Publisher/Publication Date: Midland Publishing Limited, 2006
ISBN: 1857801024
"This is designed to help aviation historians, photographers, enthusiasts, and history buffs correctly identify the units to which Air Force aircraft have been assigned. Since 1978, the Air Force has been substantially reduced in size and has undergone dramatic reorganizations at every level. These changes in size and organization have been reflected in the Air Force's aircraft and units. Though many aircraft have been retired, units inactivated, and bases closed, the aircraft remaining in service provide a very visible reflection of the restructuring. Many aircraft now wear the insignia of newly-formed major commands, revised tail markings and paint schemes reflecting the assignment of their units to new commands. Still other aircraft, though remaining at the same base and operated by the same crews, carry new markings as the 'flags' of illustrious units displaced by base closures replaced existing units. This book has three major sections. First are 14 'chapters' containing tables covering every USAF wing, group, squadron, and detachment that was active and had assigned aircraft at any time between 30 April 1978 and 1 October 2002. Second is an index of aircraft markings, and then a chronology of major events in this reorganization."
The United States Air National Guard
Author: Rene J. Francillon
Hardcover, 232pp
Publisher/Publication Date: AIRtime Publishing, 1993
ISBN: 188058803X
"History of the Guard from World War I through World War II, Vietnam and the Cold War to present day. Aircraft with descriptions, specifications and squadrons. Units of the Guard with history, patches and insignia. 450 rare photographs, mostly in color and artwork.
United States Army Air Service: Wing Badges - Uniforms and Insignia, 1913-1918
Author: Terry R. Morris
Hardcover, 128pp
Publisher/Publication Date: Scott Duff Publications, 1996
ISBN: 1888722061
"The culmination of 9 years of extensive research into early army aviation. Over 200 World War I Aviators or their families were contacted. The result is information and photographs on 77 aeronautical wing badges, 32 collar insignia, and 23 sleeve insignia presented. Major Morris traces an individual aviator's career from 17 May 1917 through 14 February 1919. Included are copies of 24 original documents from the initial telegram, ordering Lt. Byron Bilderback (27th Aero Squadron) to report for training to his discharge certificate releasing him from service. In addition, foreign wing badges worn by U.S. aviators and squadron insignia are discussed and illustrated. The growing concern for fakes is also addressed."
United States Military Aviation Directory
Editors: Tom Kaminski & Mel Williams
Hardcover, 256pp
Publisher/Publication Date: AIRtime Publishing, 2000
ISBN: 1880588293
"The most comprehensive reference work of its kind. Complete analysis of the organization and air assets of all US military arms...the US Air Force, US Navy, US Marine Corps, US Army plus the US Coast Guard. Illustrated with superb photos and detailed artwork. More than 600 color illustrations in all, plus 3-view line drawings."
Walt Disney Treasures: Walt Disney on the Front Lines
DVD, 210 minutes
Studio/Release Date: Walt Disney Video, 2004
ASIN: B0000BWVAH
"On December 8, 1941, the Disney Studio was taken over by the military as part of the war effort. Making the most of the talent that hadn't shipped out yet, Walt Disney spent the next four years creating and producing training, propaganda, and educational films for the Armed Forces. In addition to these films, this extraordinary volume also includes the full-length feature "Victory Through Air Power." Released theatrically in 1943, this powerful propaganda film has never been reissued until now. You'll also see recently discovered on-the-set footage, and get rare firsthand accounts about the work and culture at the Disney Studio in interviews with Disney Legends Joe Grant, John Hench, and Roy Disney. Featuring exclusive introductions by film historian Leonard Maltin, this is a timeless collection from generations past for generations to come." The bonus features include 59 insignia designed by Walt Disney during World War II.
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