the united states army institute of heraldry, also known as the institute of heraldry (tioh), furnishes heraldic services to the u.s. armed forces and other u.s. federal government organizations, including the executive office of the president. the activities of the institute encompass research, design, development, standardization, quality control, and other services relating to official symbolic items—seals, decorations, medals, insignia, badges, flags, and other items awarded to or authorized for official wear or display by government personnel and agencies. limited research and information services concerning official symbolic items are also provided to the general public. the institute of heraldry is located at fort belvoir, a military installation within the metropolitan area of washington, d.c. the staff consists of 21 civilians.