US Air Force O-5 Shoulderboard T-Shirt Design
This t-shirt design replicates the shoulderboard insignia worn by United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonels (O-5) from 1949 to 1999. The design is a faithful representation of a significant piece of military history and tradition.
Shoulderboard Details Recreated
The artwork centers on a detailed depiction of the shoulderboard itself. The base of the design is a field of dark Air Force blue, accurately capturing the cloth color. The border is meticulously outlined with a silver braid edging, mirroring the authentic trim.
Rank Insignia: The Silver Oak Leaf
The focal point of the design is the single silver oak leaf, prominently displayed and centered on the shoulderboard. This oak leaf, rendered with precision, is the defining symbol of the Lieutenant Colonel rank. Its placement and style reflect the exact specifications used during the period.
Symbolism and Meaning
The silver oak leaf represents the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, a field-grade officer within the Air Force. The oak leaf signifies strength, endurance, and leadership. The design serves as a tribute to the dedicated service and commitment of Lieutenant Colonels throughout the Cold War and beyond. The visual distinction created by the silver oak leaf, placed between the gold oak leaf of a Major and the silver eagle of a Colonel, is intentionally maintained to clearly illustrate the rank.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
