450th Intelligence Squadron

Emblem

Description

On a disc Azure, a key in chief Or and a sword of the last flamed Gules in saltire above in base a gamecock of the last, detailed Sable spurred Argent, all within a narrow border Yellow.

Attached below the disk, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and inscribed “450TH INTELLIGENCE SQ” in Yellow letters.

Symbolism

Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors.  Blue alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations.  Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence required of Air Force personnel.  The rooster is the heritage emblem from when the unit was located at RAF Chicksands.  The rooster, in fighting stance, represents the combat nature of the operations and the warrior ethos present within the Squadron.  It is also known for its early morning calls alerting others to the break of a new day, much as intelligence alerts the unit’s responsibility to changes in the environment, whether they are threats or capabilities.  The burning sword represents quick action and the cutting edge of intelligence operations.  The key is a common Air Force symbol representing cumulatively the key of knowledge, unlocking the doors to the unknown, and the ability to access secret information.