SHIELD
Azure, a cross throughout Argent voided Gules, at dexter chief an atomic symbol of the second and at sinister base a spearhead point up Proper; overall a dolphin bendwise sinister Or with head at dexter base.
CREST
On a wreath Or and Azure, the land area known as "Diamond Head" supporting a sword, bendwise sinister Proper behind a Hawaiian chief's helmet Or, Gules and Sable and flanked by two palm fronds Vert.
MOTTO
On a scroll Azure doubled Or, the motto, "MAKA'ALA MAU" ("Always on the Alert"), in Gold.
SEAL
The complete coat of arms emblazoned upon a white oval enclosed within a blue collar edged on the outer side with a gold continuous rope and inscribed at top "USS HONOLULU" and in base "SSN 718," all in gold letters.
SHIELD
Blue and gold are the traditional Navy colors. The cross, red edged with white, is from the Hawaiian state flag and also identifies Honolulu as the "Crossroads of the Pacific." The dolphin, a time honored symbol of the sea and of submarine service, is in a diving position, a maneuver common to submarines. The nuclear symbol refers to the ship's source of power and, with the spearhead, denotes the ship's atomic missile capabilities.
CREST
Diamond Head is closely associated with the City of Honolulu. The sword and helmet are of the type used and worn by the early warrior chiefs of Hawaii and denote the ship's fighting spirit. The palms are a symbol of honor and are representative of the Pacific area.