The term "retired flag" in the context of the Air Force refers to the Department of the Air Force seal, which contains the Air Force shield. This shield was unveiled in January 2000, following a period of research and planning. Official Status: The US Air Force Retired flag became official on May 5, 2004, and the Air Force also released guidelines for its appropriate use. The shield's design uses elements from the 1951 flag, and it features three stars representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the Air Force star being the largest, symbolizing its position as the youngest service. This flag is 100% Made in USA to Official Specifications. Expertly printed and sewn using Annin's 200 denier nylon fabric with our exclusive SolarGuard™ dyes. Proven to last the longest and be the brightest. Durable fabric flies in the lightest breeze and blocks damaging UV rays. Finished with sturdy canvas heading and strong brass grommets. This flag is 100% Made in the USA to Official Specifications. Annin Flagmakers Nyl-Glo Nylon.