Crest

BLAZON
 
SHIELD:  Per bend wavy Argent (diapered Celeste) and Celeste, a bendlet wavy Or, between a torteau in sinister chief and a trident and sword in dexter base in saltire points upward of the third. All within a narrow bordure billetty Azure and Or.
 
CREST:  Issuant from a wreath of the colors Or and Azure, a compass (of eight points) Gules, fimbriated Argent, surmounting a celestial starburst, Celeste.
 
SUPPORTERS:  On each side of the shield, a Crow war bonnet Proper.
 
MOTTO:  On a wavy curled scroll, Gules doubled Or, the inscription “BIG SKY OVER TROUBLED WATERS” Or.
 
 

SYMBOLISM

 
SHIELD:  Dark blue and gold are traditional colors associated with the United States Navy.  The gold trident is a traditional Navy symbol and also refers to King Neptune, God of the Sea.  Placed over a blue field and next to a wavy gold line, the trident represents the Navy’s commitment to projecting dominance over global waterways and readiness to defend our nation.  The red “torteau” (and background) are taken from the flag of Billings, Montana.  The billetty bordure evokes a heraldic pun for Frederick “Billings” and illustrates how his contributions were vital to the building of the city.  The entire color scheme--blue, yellow, red and white--also reflects the colors often used in Indian bead work.  
 
CREST:  The compass placed at the highest point represents navigation on the high seas.  Surrounded by the celestial star burst, it alludes to celestial navigation and is synonymous with guidance from the North Star. The celestial theme is further echoed in the ship’s motto, “BIG SKY OVER TROUBLED WATERS.”
 
SUPPORTERS:  The Crow war bonnet or headdress is inspired by the headdress on the flag of the Crow Nation. On the dexter side it represents the clan chiefs and on the sinister side, the clan on the mother’s side.  Both lend guidance, inspiration and protection to all tribal members.  The Crow Indian Reservation is located in South Central Montana.
 
SEAL:  The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on an off-white oblong disc field within a dark blue designation band, edged with a gold roped border and bearing the name “USS BILLINGS” at the top and “LCS 15” at the base.