The Air Force is one of the smaller branches of the Armed Forces, but that doesn’t make it any less important. These men and women provide safety in the skies above our country, protection for our forces deployed overseas, and strategic bombing when needed. The support and maintenance units help ensure that the aircraft are ready for action at a moment’s notice.

If you want to give Air Force gifts to your friends or family members who serve this country, then you’re in luck! There are many great gift ideas that will delight the Air Force member in your life. Some are very elegant. Others are useful. Still more are great for gag gifts! First decide which type of gift that you want to give.

For those that want an elegant and formal Air Force gift, then consider Air Force jewelry, such as rings, pendants, key chains, earrings, and bracelets. These are beautiful tokens of a military member’s service and most can be personalized with a short message or important date. These gifts will really resonate with your airman or officer, as everyone loves to receive a gift that is specifically made for them.

Other formal Air Force gifts include shadowboxes and display cases. You can fill a display case with the airman’s medals, photos, and patches. This is a great idea for someone who is retiring or just received a promotion. Other Air Force gifts might include a personalized desk set, a plaque honoring the recipient’s service, or even set of engraved glasses.

For those that love military clothing, there are so many Air Force gifts that run down this line. Jackets and hats are two of the most popular, but t-shirts and sweats are right behind. Many of the t-shirts poke fun at another branch of the military, as the competition between the branches is high. In addition, you can find some great Air Force scarves, boxers, and even socks that most people will really enjoy receiving as a gift.

Most members of the Air Force have spent time deployed in support of military operations around the world. These deployments are quite difficult on their friends and family, as well as on themselves. However, there is a great deal of pride in serving their country across the globe. Consider giving Air Force gifts that recognize these military operations, such as Operations Desert Storm, Desert Shield, and Iraqi Freedom.  Your friend or family member will appreciate the recognition for such service. You may also want to consider honoring an Air Force Veteran who served in such conflicts as Vietnam or Korea.

In closing, when consider which of the many Air Force gifts will be best received, think about what type of job the airman has and where he or she has been stationed. This will help you choose the best gift possible, but remember that it’s the show of appreciation for their service, sacrifice, and dedication that really matters to your military friend or family member.

The 174^th Fighter Wing was originally formed as the 138^th Fighter Squadron on October 28, 1947. It was the first Air National Guard Unit in New York State after World War II. P-47D Thunderbolts were the first aircraft assigned at Hancock Field, which once was a base for the Army Air Force.

The first jet fighters arrived in 1950, which were the F-84B Thunderjets. It didn’t take long for this base to become the main jet fighter training base for the state of New York. In 1957, the 138^th Fighter Squadron was assigned to Tactical Air Command when the F-86H Sabres arrived. This would begin what become a long tradition of providing close air support as their primary mission.

President John F. Kennedy mobilized the 138^th Fighter Squadron in 1961 and it was under the control of the 102^nd Tactical Fighter Wing. During the Berlin Crisis, the unit was called to active duty. The unit was deployed to Platsbourg-Bourscheid Air Base for almost two years. Upon returning to the United States, the unit would be renamed the 174^th Tactical Fighter Group.

Over the next two decades, the 174^th Tactical Fighter Group would be called to active duty again. It was sent to Cannon AFB in New Mexico for the Pueblo Crisis. In 1979, the 174^th would change from a flying group to a wing. It would have a new aircraft, too: the A-10A Thunderbolt II. In 1988, the first F-16A Fighting Falcon would arrive. This 174^th would become the testing grounds for F-16A with a 30mm gun pod. The role of close air support was still its main mission. The year the F-16As arrived, the unit would receive the Air Force’s Outstanding Maintenance Squadron Award.

In 1991, the 174^th would deploy in support of Desert Storm, with 516 members. During Operation Desert Storm, the 174^th was one of only two Air National Guard units that flew combat missions. The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, along with the device for valor was awarded upon the unit’s return.

In 1992, the unit would get its current designation as the 174^th Fighter Wing. Two deployments to Incirlik, Turkey would come between 1995 and 1997. These deployments were in support of Operation Northern Watch and Operation Provide Comfort II. The F-16As were also upgraded to F-16Cs, known as the Fighting Falcon. The F-16C would depart Hancock Field for the last time in 2010, when the 174^th Fighter Wing would take on the MQ-9 Reaper, which is an unmanned combat aircraft.

If you or someone you know has served with the 174^th Fighter Wing, consider ordering an Air Force ring as a reminder of the service and sacrifice necessary to make this Fighter Wing so successful. The 174^th has been awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 4 times, showing the high level of commitment in this unit. There is no better way to recognize this dedication than with one of the many styles of Air Force rings. Each Air Force ring can be personalized and shipped to almost anywhere in the world.

The United States Air Force Academy is located in Colorado and is actually the youngest of the military academies. Graduating its first class in 1959, the Academy takes in about 1,400 new students each year. Of those 1,400, about 1,000 graduate. Upon graduation, most are commissioned as 2^nd Lieutenants in the United States Air Force.

On important component of the Air Force Academy is the Air Force class ring. Each year, the two class rings are collected and added to the ingot used to create the rings. This means a piece of each academy class before is in each class’s rings. This tradition is one that brings a lot of pride and honor to those who graduate from the United States Air Force Academy. The designs of the ring may not all be similar, but most are created from white gold, as yellow gold is not authorized for academy class rings.

There are many other types of Air Force rings, too. Many enlisted men and women have this special military ring created to remember their service and dedication. Others have them created to give as gifts in appreciation for an Air Force member’s sacrifice and commitment. There are many options for designing an Air Force ring, including several different styles, materials, and emblems. Each ring can be personalized with an engraving inside the band, too. As a gift, this lets you show the recipient a special message or you can just include their name and rank. It’s also a good way of identifying the ring if it were ever lost or stolen.

When designing an Air Force ring, you should first determine which style of ring you want. Many love the look of a class ring, with a semi-precious stone on the top. Others want a signet ring. This may have the Air Force crest or seal on the top. The sides are bare, creating simple, but elegant look. Others want the signet ring with emblems on the sides. These emblems may be one of over a hundred designs and symbols. Some choose the type of aircraft they are assigned to or perhaps a special insignia for a specialized unit. This is where the customization of these Air Force rings come into play. It’s why these rings become such treasures and are often passed on to future generations.

When ordering your ring, be sure you check your order carefully. You don’t want any mistakes. Since each ring is hand crafted, you can’t simply exchange it for another one. If the error was on your end, you’re stuck with it. However, once your ring arrives, make sure you check it carefully. If there are any problems and it wasn’t because of the way you ordered it, then you’ll need to let the company know as soon as possible. Another ring can be created and shipped to you.

In closing, when you’re designing an Air Force ring for yourself or for a loved one, keep the above information in mind. This way you’ll know that ring soon to arrive in your mailbox will be perfect and just what you expected.

]]> http://www.military-rings.com/air-force-rings-military-rings/air-force-rings-are-a-proud-tradition/feed/ 0 http://www.military-rings.com/air-force-rings-military-rings/air-force-rings-three-tips-for-designing-the-perfect-ring/ http://www.military-rings.com/air-force-rings-military-rings/air-force-rings-three-tips-for-designing-the-perfect-ring/#comments Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:17:10 +0000 admin http://www.military-rings.com/?p=1291

The Air Force has been an integral part of the United States military.
From the fighter pilot to the logistics officers and everyone in between,
Air Force personnel stationed and deployed around the world
work to preserve our freedom.

One way to recognize this service is with one of the
beautiful styles of Air Force rings.

Because Air Force rings can be so personalized,
there are a few tips that can help you decide what will look best.

Since this is such an important piece of jewelry to any military member,
you’ll want to make sure you get it right! Consider the following:

#1 Choose the Right Style

There are three different types of military rings available.
One is very formal and resembles a class ring.

It has a semi-precious stone set in the top that may or may not have a symbol engraved in it.
The second type does not have a stone in the top, but instead features a hand engraved insignia or emblem on top.
This may be the Air Force crest, a specific aircraft, or a specialized unit emblem.

Both of these first two types of military ring have additional symbols or emblems on the side.
The third type of ring is very streamlined, featuring only a signet, crest, or emblem engraved on the top of the ring.
The sides have no emblems, resulting in a stylish, classic design.

#2 Choose the Personalization

Depending on what your friend or family member would like, there are hundreds of emblems and symbols that you can have placed on the top or the sides of the Air Force rings. Consider the squadron or unit the airman or officer is assigned to. Perhaps you want to recognize a special unit, such as the Air Force Special Forces. There are also designs for specific military campaigns, such as Vietnam, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation Enduring Freedom. Consider an emblem on one side and a special date on the other, such as when the recipient graduated from a specific school or training. The options are limitless.

#3 Choose the Right Material

Gold and silver are very popular choices for Air Force Rings. Many choose silver, as it often compliments the Air Force dress uniform. However, gold looks fantastic as well. Validium is another choice and very popular with those who can wear their ring while at work. This is because validium is very strong and will resist scratches better than gold or silver. Think about the other jewelry the Air Force members wears, too. This will give you a good idea of what the recipient would be appreciate for their ring.

In closing, there are many choices available for Air Force rings. Each can be designed specifically to honor the airman or officer. It’s a fantastic way to show your appreciation, as well as to honor their service and sacrifice. The United States Air Force works hard to keep America safe and secure. Let your military friend or family know just how much you value their service.

Since the beginning of the war in Iraq it has been quite difficult to pin point exactly which area was more dangerous than the next.
So here is a link that you should look at to give you some idea of what our brave soldiers go through on practically a daily basis;

Fallujah the Video

I have spent time in Iraq and Kuwait and have witnessed first hand the terror of hearing those words ( incoming – incoming) that was the signal everyone hear on the base when we were under fire. On hearing these few words echoed around the base we had to run for shelter to the concrete bunkers that were strategically located throughout the base and wait there until we heard the words (all clear) echoed throughout the base.

History of Fallujah

In 2003 the US led the coalition forces in Iraq and just after that time Fallujahbecame one of the areas that became not so dangerous. It was home to a resort called Dreamland which was used by the Ba’athist congregation of the area. The area was plagued by looters after the defeat of Saddam Hussein, they went after and targeted government buildings and anything else that represented the former establishment.

Fallujah Abu Ghraib Prison.

Fallujah will always be remembered for the notorious Abu Ghraib prison that was used to intern members of society the were against or spoke out about the dictator Saddam.

Fallujah the Curfew

A curfew imposed by the US in April 2003 was defied by a select group of the local population when they grouped outside a local school. The American 82nd Airborne was guarding the building, when the curfew was defied, the troops in an act of defense opened fire and killed seventeen civilians and wounded another seventy approximately. 

Four contractors were dragged from their vehicle in 2004 beaten to death and then were set alight. They were Scott Helvenston, Jerry Zovko, Wesley Batalona and Michael Teague. This dreadful act was photographed and shown by news broadcasters around the world causing untold pain to the families of these men. Remember them in your prayers today.

Commemorate Your Deployment

Right Here

Never Forget

Sample Images for Rings

 

When we achieve that special goal that we have worked hard for so long for, we like to mark the occasion with something extra special. Now there are various methods by which we can celebrate like taking the family out to for a nice evening or indeed heading off on a vacation if it’s within the budget. As I have spent many years around the world promoting products the help commemorate special military occasions I feel adequately informed to make a few suggestions.

Gold Uses in the Military

• Gold Military Rings
• Gold Navy Rings
• Gold Army Rings
• Gold Marine Rings
• Gold Air Force Rings
• Gold Graduation Rings
• Gold Retirement Rings.

Gold Military Rings

Although not the cheapest metal at the present moment but with the present uncertain economic climate it may actually increase in value but on the otherhand it could decline. It is always considered a pretty safe haven when times are uncertain  and its one of the precious metals that will hold its value when other assets like property and shares are so volatile. As I write this article Gold as actually gone through the $1000.00 mark and this is a major psychological threshold at the same time that the dollars is weakening. I’m not a financial guru, but to a layman it certainly doesn’t look to bright. So I would suggest to you that the time to buy the “Gold Military Ring” is now.

Shop and Save Here

Gold Military Rings for the Army.

It’s quite usual for service members from the Department of the Army to engage a company to custom design a “Gold Army Ring” with the various designs that’s appropriate to the individual fro their graduation, retirement or indeed to commemorate a special occasin or deployment. Gold Military Rings are one of the best ways to mark any occasion and a unique way to display that military pride and will also help to create a great family heirloom.

Gold Military Rings and Gold History.

Back in the year of 1971 it was President Nixon who allowed the price of Gold to float. It was President Roosevelt that set the price of Gold at a standard $35 an ounce and it remained at the same price from 1934 to 1971. And with a large amount of people looking to invest their money in something tat would give them security other than property and shares they invested in Gold which drove the price up to $850 an ounce. Gold has a great appeal to people from all over the world and this can be seen by the amount of the precious metal that’s used in the manufacture of jewelry especially Gold Military Rings.

Testimonial about Military Rings.
Janet Green, from Bolingbrook, Illinois. Ordered a US Army Ring for her sons graduation.
Ring was delivered yesterday! Opened up package when I got home.
It is totally AWESOME!
Very heavy weight, worth every penny. Engraving, panels are detailed to perfection!
The stone is a beautiful blue (his favorite color AND birthstone) and lays perfectly in the ring.
Very masculine ring … A terrific job! I can’t wait to give it to my son!
I know he will wear it proudly!

Kindest regards …
Janet

Design a Military Ring

On the East Coast of the United States the beautiful state of North Carolina is situated with miles and miles of welcoming beaches and inviting tourist areas. There are a number of military installations scattered throughout the state but the one that comes to mind immediately is Fort Bragg and it is also one of the most historic ones especially over the last century. It is home to the very effective 82nd Airborne, US Army Special Operations Command, Field Artillery Brigade, Corps Support Command, XVIII Airborne Corps and the Joint Special Operations Command.

82 Airborne Ring 

This is a special ring that can be customized to carry those much recognizable AA on the sides with possible your name over it and on the other side, details of a special deployment or mission can be engraved. The 82 Airborne plays a vital role in the defence and support of national interest, it is one of the airborne divisions that can deploy within twenty four hours notice and perform parachute entry assault initially for the operations that will follow later. In earlier years when they were first formed their key missions were to take control of strategic locations like ports and military airfields and this hasn’t changed much over the years. The division is on such a state of alert and readiness that up to one third is ready to await the call of duty within a very short period, another third is in constant training and the remaining population of the division is a state of combat readiness.It is referred to as “Americas Guard of Honor” and rightly so as it has been involved in every conflict that I can recall and have read about from the Second World War to the most recent conflicts and campaigns in the Middle EastAfghanistan

101st Airborne Ring

Travel over the Smokey Mountains and up through Tennessee and through some of the most breath taking scenery in the United States you will eventually arrive in another welcoming state we call good old Kentucky where blue grass music fills the air. Right over the border with Tennessee you will arrive at the gate of Fort Campbell and of course if you don’t have the proper pass you will not be allowed on to this secure installation. This is home to the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault, 101st Corps Support Group Regiment, 160th Special Operation Aviation Reg. 5th Special Forces Group and of course the Air Assault School where all this training starts.

Airborne in Europe

After the Second World War when the Germans were defeated by the United States ant its Allies the US retained a presence in Europe and of course the Airborne was one of those divisions. If you go to Italy to this day you will see that the 173rd Airborne division is stationed there and in Germany in the Northern Baviria such as Bamberg a quaint and beautiful University City you will have pockets where the other Airborne units and divisions are influential.