Celeste, a pile Sable, voided of the field, edged Argent and intertwined with a United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer's anchor Or.
On a wreath Argent (White) and Celeste, a ship's wheel Argent (Silver) surmounted by a Bronze Star, between two tree trunk barricades Proper.
A scroll Azure doubled Gules inscribed "FACERE INFERNA" Argent.
The shape of the shield is adapted from the U.S. Coast Guard service shield; its color is in honor of BMCM Horsley's participation in OPERATION ICEBERG, the invasion of Okinawa. The black reversed chevron forms the shape of the letter "V" to reflect the combat "V." The white edging refers to the white stripes of the Bronze Star Medal ribbon. The anchor signifies stability and security. This specific anchor is from the cap device worn by all Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers.
The tree trunk barricades commemorate the barricades discovered on the beaches of Normandy, portraying WWII service. The ship's wheel is from the USCG Cutterman Badge, indicative of BMCM Horsley's service on board 34 USCG vessels. The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to BMCM Horsley for his meritorious service in Vietnam from October 1966 to January 1969.
Red, white and blue are the colors traditionally associated with the Coast Guard and represent the sea and excellence. The dark blue of the scroll honors BMCM Horsley's involvement in OPERATION DRAGOON, the invasion of southern France. The red backing of the scroll is in tribute to his service in the Korean War. The motto, "FACERE INFERNA," translates to "Raise Hell" in English.
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color upon a white disc enclosed within a blue collar edged on the outside with gold chain bearing 34 front-facing chain links and inscribed with the name "USCGC DONALD HORSLEY" at top and "WPC 1117" in base, all in gold.