Crest

SHIELD
Dark blue and gold are traditional colors associated with the United States Navy.  The red lozenge and the configuration of the four stars represent the Arkansas flag in color and is shaped as a heraldic diamond.  The diamond in the center is symbolic of Arkansas’ 1897 status as “the only diamond-bearing state in the Union.” This symbol also alludes to the LCS 9 crew and their attainment of excellence.  The diamond is also engraved on the Arkansas state quarter as it is the gem of Arkansas and, being the hardest known natural material, it represents endurance and perseverance as well as the many facets and challenges of the ship’s mission.

CREST
The eagle is taken, in part, from The Great Seal of Arkansas with the mascal coronet symbolizing honor.  The ship’s wheel is a traditional naval symbol and is reminiscent of the ship’s wheel on the previous USS Little Rock (CL-92) badge.

SUPPORTERS
The conquistador sword represents the Age of Discovery during which the first European expedition to reach Arkansas was led by Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto in 1541.  The trident is an attribute of Neptune and signifies the three mission areas of mine, surface, and anti-submarine warfare.

SEAL
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oblong disc field within a dark blue designation band, edged with a gold roped border and bearing the name “USS LITTLE ROCK” at the top and “LCS 9” at the base.