The Symbol of SHAPE
Two gold swords, unsheathed, are superimposed on a gold scroll bearing the official mottoe; 'Vigilia Pretium Libertatis' (Vigilance is the Price of Liberty). Two sprays of olive leaves in gold at the bottom of the scroll indicate the dedication of the NATO nations to peace; the swords show the armed strength necessary to preserve peace. The position of the swords produce the letter 'A', representing the Alliance. Witihn the scroll, and behind the swords, are twelve silver fronds, stemming from the olive sprays and denoting the original sigatures of the North Atlantic Treaty. They produce, by their position, rays of hope. THe whole designe is superimposed on a sheild of dark green, representing the peaceful woods and fields of Europe.
(Courtesy of ACO Public Affairs Office)