Description: The patch is a round emblem with a white background outlined in gold. Two black falcons, diving in formation, leave blue contrails. The number “33” is located in the patch’s upper right corner.
Significance: The two black, spacecraft-like figures represent falcons, the mascot of the Air Force Academy and a bird of prey noted for its speed, keen eyesight, and fierce fighting spirit. They are flying in formation to show the teamwork of the members of the Cadet Wing and the Air Force.
Alternate Significance: The Air Force colors, ultramarine blue and golden yellow, are used in the design. The color blue alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations, and yellow to the sun and excellence of personnel in assigned duties. The figures displayed represent two diving falcons. The falcon is the mascot of the Air force Academy and is a bird of prey noted for its speed, keen eyesight, and fierce fighting spirit. The falcons are flying information to show the teamwork of the men of the Cadet Wing and the men of the Air Force. The contrails are significant of the modern Air Force, its men, and equipment, all of which contribute to make the world a better place in which to live, both today and in the future. White background represents the harmonious blending of all colors, thereby showing the togetherness of all mankind. Black represents the endless frontier of space.
History: This is the squadron’s original patch.
Nicknames: "Cellar Rats" "Cellar Ratz" "King Ratz"
1970 –
