168th Air Support Operations Squadron emblem

BLAZON On a disc Azure, a demi-disc Vert, fimbriated Gules parted per bend by a flaming arrow in flight bendwise point to dexter chief Sable, highlighted Argent, flames Proper, the demi-disc charged with a lightning bolt bend wise Or, fimbriated of the fourth, and in sinister chief a delta flight symbol of the fifth, all within a narrow border Black. Attached above the disc, a White scroll edged with a narrow Black border and inscribed “HEAVY METAL REQUEST LINE” in Black letters. Attached below the disc, a White scroll edged with a narrow Black border and inscribed “168 ASOS” in Black letters. SIGNFICANCE 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 stylized plane represents airpower and the ability to deliver airpower anywhere in the world. The lightning bolt represents the unit’s long-range and enduring communication’s capability. The flaming arrow symbolizes the American Indian heritage and traditions of Peoria, Illinois along with the unit’s enduring readiness for combat. The emblem overall is symbolic of the unit’s direct support to ground forces and the militia tradition in readiness to serve both state and nation. The motto, “Heavy Metal Request Line,” represents the core Squadron mission of receiving and tasking immediate close air support requests from Joint Terminal Attack Controllers under fire. “Heavy Metal” refers to both the aircraft and the weight of bombs delivered; “Request Line” references the Joint Air Request Net (JARN) which the controllers use to call and request immediate air support. COLORS Ultramarine Blue Air Force Yellow Black Scarlet White Green