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The crest of the USS LOUISIANA recalls the proud traditions of the people of the State of Louisiana and the three previous ships to bear her name. In understanding the symbolism of this crest, the crew is reminded of their special bond to the people and history of Louisiana, and the heroic tradition of the naval veterans who have gone before them. To others, the crest will serve as a proud statement that the crew carries forward those traditions in faithful and excellent service.

The gold braid encircling the seal represents eternal commitment of the crew to the values of pride, patriotism, honor and tradition.

The eighteen stars surrounding the crest identify Louisiana as the eighteenth state of the Union and the USS LOUISIANA as the eighteenth Trident submarine.

The Pelican is shown protecting her young with outstretched wings. The state bird, as legend has it, is the only bird known to give its own flesh to feed its young when it is unable to find food.

The USS LOUISIANA is sworn to defend the red, white and blue of our proud nation and carries the gold, white, and blue of the State of Louisiana to recall her origins. Additionally, the dark blue and gold traditionally associated with the United States Navy represent excellence and the sea, and distinguish the two crews of the USS LOUISIANA.

Striking in its appearance, the bow-on perspective of the modern Trident submarine is unmistakable. Bold and steadfast, it serves as a warning of the ship’s resolute commitment to defending freedom.

The four stars represent that this is the fourth ship to bear the name. The laurel is symbolic of each crew member’s commitment to service with honor to his country, and ship. The Tridents symbolize naval weaponry, both past and present, and sea prowess. Their bottom spikes pierce the state motto, anchoring it, and point toward the ocean depth where the ship patrols.

An iris with three petals was once the armorial emblem of French sovereigns, and it is often used as a symbol of the state of Louisiana. Here it represents the French influence on the state of Louisiana.

The banner with the inscription “Union, Justice, and Confidence” proclaims the state motto. Wrapping the banner around the ship symbolizes the crew’s strong esprit de corps with the people of the state of Louisiana.

The crawfish is symbolic of the rich and unique cultural heritage of the proud people of the state of Louisiana.