Final answer:
The shield on the Air Force coat of arms, situated in the center of the Air Force seal, is divided into three parts. The divisions symbolize different core functions of the Air Force. The Air Force operates under civilian control, as per Article 2 of the Constitution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Air Force seal is an important symbol representing the United States Air Force (USAF), one of the branches of the U.S. armed forces, which also include the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The shield of the Air Force coat of arms, which is highlighted in the center of the seal and located directly below the eagle and wreath, is divided horizontally into three parts. This division symbolizes the core functions of the Air Force, such as air and space superiority, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, rapid global mobility, and more.
The Air Force, along with the other branches of the military, operates under civilian control, with the President serving as Commander in Chief. This principle is established by Article 2 of the Constitution and ensures that even the highest-ranking military officers are accountable to an elected official, a cornerstone concept supporting the promotion of the general welfare.