My connection to the Air Force runs deep, and it started long before I ever put on a uniform. It began with my great-grandfather. He served for 40 years, joining what was then the Army Air Corps and retiring from a modern U.S. Air Force. His career was, quite literally, the history of American airpower.
He learned to fly a biplane while in ROTC and went on to become a research and development engineer, serving all over the world. His career spanned from fabric wings to finishing his work on modern jet engines and rockets. I was always deeply impressed by him, and our family is filled with stories of his adventures (and his two sons' misadventures).
Years ago, I was given his military sword. It was a tangible piece of his incredible legacy, and the thought of leaving it in a closet for safekeeping felt wrong. It needed to be out in the open, where it could spark a conversation and allow me to share his story of service—a story we are so proud of. That very moment was the inspiration for Blades Raised. Today, as a military officer and an engineer just like him, I proudly hang my own sword right next to his.
Our Own Formation Flight to Colorado Springs
To teach our own kids about this heritage, we took them to the splendid Air Force Academy campus in Colorado Springs. It is a beautiful, inspiring place. Unfortunately for us, the iconic Cadet Chapel was shrouded in scaffolding for its major renovation, so we couldn't see its famous spires. But it just gives us a great reason to return and one day see it in its full glory!
1. A Place of Honor for Their Saber and Sword
Every USAFA cadet's journey culminates with the presentation of their saber, a symbol of the leadership and character forged in the intense environment of the Academy. To honor this tradition and provide a tribute worthy of their achievement, we offer several display options.
Our Dedicated Displays: For a classic, precision fit, we offer displays designed specifically for the USAFA Cadet Saber and the Air Force Officer Sword. Both are finished in our signature Cognac stain.
Our Universal Display (Three Finishes): For the ultimate in personalization, our Universal style is the perfect choice. Its clean, minimalist design securely holds either the Cadet Saber or the Officer sword, and it's available in three stunning hardwood finishes to perfectly match their future home or office: a bright Maple, a deep, rich Walnut, and our classic Cognac.
Perfect for: USAFA Graduation, Commissioning, a significant Christmas gift.
Explore The Air Force & Cadet Saber Displays
See the Universal Style in Maple, Walnut, & Cognac
2. Capturing the Moment They Take Flight
From Acceptance Day to the Hat Toss, every step at USAFA is a defining moment. A Personalized Commissioning Plaque allows you to frame a cherished 5x7 photo from their graduation or first salute, alongside their Officer Crest and a custom engraved message. It's a beautiful way for parents and grandparents to commemorate their commission into the U.S. Air Force or Space Force.
Perfect for: Celebrating commissioning, a meaningful holiday gift for proud families.
Design a Custom Commissioning Plaque
3. Building Their Own History of Flight, Coin by Coin
From squadron coins to special event coins collected at the Academy and beyond, every challenge coin tells a part of their unique story of service. Our solid maple coin display turns that collection into a growing, visual history of their career. With three lines of custom engraving, you can add their name, class year, and a personal motto, creating a deeply personal tribute to their journey.
Perfect for: Displaying coins earned as a cadet and throughout their commissioned career.
Shop Our Engraved Challenge Coin Displays
From my great-grandfather's biplane to the modern marvels of aerospace, the Air Force has always been about looking to the horizon. It's an honor to help the next generation of leaders—the graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy—proudly display the symbols of their own journey into the wild blue yonder.
- The Blades Raised Team
