There is a unique bond shared by those who survived four years at the foot of the Rampart Range. Whether you remember the old dorms or the new, the sight of the Chapel spires against a Colorado sunset (or a driving snowstorm) is etched in your memory. You earned your Prop and Wings, you marched the Terrazzo, and you joined the Long Blue Line.
But look around your home office or study today. Does it reflect the pride of that accomplishment?
For many Air Force Academy graduates, the symbols of that time—the Cadet Saber or the Officer Sword acquired at commissioning—are often relegated to the shadows. They sit in the original cardboard box, or perhaps in a dated display case that screams "dorm room" rather than "distinguished career."
You’ve moved on from the Academy, but your values haven't changed. Here is how to upgrade your space to honor your USAFA legacy with the sophistication it deserves.
1. A Display as Sharp as the Aesthetics: The Universal Sword Display
The Air Force has always been about looking forward—technology, sleek lines, and modernization. Your display should reflect that.
We designed our Universal Sword Display to move away from the cluttered, "traditional plaque" look and toward something cleaner and more architectural. It’s designed to fit the modern home or executive office.
We offer three distinct finishes to match your current style:
Maple: A bright, clean finish that looks fantastic in modern spaces and highlights the chrome of the saber.
Walnut: A deep, rich tone that adds gravity and warmth to a traditional study or library.
Cognac: Our classic finish that bridges the gap between heritage and home decor.
Whether you are displaying your curved Cadet Saber or the straight Officer Sword, the Universal design cradles it securely and stylishly.
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.
Shop the Universal Sword Display Collection
Explore The Air Force & Cadet Saber Displays
2. Personalizing Your Place in the Long Blue Line
The bond of a class year is powerful. When you personalize your display with Blades Raised, you have the opportunity to tell your specific story.
Instead of a generic nameplate, consider an engraving that captures your Academy identity:
Lt Col John Doe, USAF (Ret)
USAFA Class of 2008
Integrity First
This small detail transforms the object from a simple "sword holder" into a permanent tribute to the four years that forged you.
3. Curating the Career: The Coin Display
From the Academy to pilot training, from deployments to the Pentagon, an Air Force career covers a lot of ground. Your challenge coin collection is the map of that journey.
Rather than tossing them in a drawer or a coffee mug, give them a place of honor. A handcrafted Coin Display on your desk allows you to curate the "highlight reel" of your service. Display your Class coin, your squadron coins, and coins from key commanders. It turns your desk into a conversation starter about the history of airpower and your role in it.
4. Inspiring the Next Generation
Perhaps you have a child aiming for an appointment, or grandchildren who are fascinated by airplanes.
Displaying your sword or saber isn't about vanity; it's about history. It serves as a visual anchor for the Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do. By giving your sword a place of honor, you keep those values visible in your home, inspiring the next generation to Aim High.
Your time at the Academy was a crucible that prepared you for a lifetime of leadership. Don't let the symbols of that journey stay hidden in the dark. Bring them out, display them with pride, and let them tell your story.
Fast Neat Average.
- The Blades Raised Team
