Shield. Blue and gold are the traditional colors of the US Navy and here they symbolize the blue and gold crews employed on littoral combat ships. The wavy flaunches denote the two bodies of water that Cleveland sits on, the south shore of Lake Erie and the banks of the Cuyahoga River. The red lightning bolts represent the speed of the USS CLEVELAND (LCS 31) and are colored red to symbolize warfighting capabilities. The sun in splendor represents the new energy found in modern day Cleveland due to the collaboration and creativity of its citizens. The sun has sixteen rays, marking the USS CLEVELAND (LCS 31) as the sixteenth Freedom-class littoral combat ship. The open book and winged Rod of Asclepius symbolizes Cleveland as the home of world-renowned museums, prestigious universities, and nationally recognized hospitals.
Crest. The wreath adopts the first-named metal and color from the shield and blazon. The anvil and red stripe refer to the ship’s motto, “FORGE A LEGACY,” and together symbolize Cleveland’s former steel and heavy manufacturing industries. The skyline represents the people, achievements, history, and future of Cleveland, Ohio. The fret represents the newly revitalized Cleveland Public Square which was part of the original 1796 town plan. The four stars indicate the four United States Navy vessels named for the city.
Supporters. The crossed sword and cutlass symbolize the officers and enlisted crew that sail the ship, demonstrating teamwork and cooperation by the naval team of the USS CLEVELAND (LCS 31).
Motto. The ship’s motto, “FORGE A LEGACY,” denotes the plan to bring the ship to life at commissioning, excellence during service life (20-25 years), and the return of the ship to Cleveland upon retirement to serve as an enduring memorial and museum.
Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oval within a dark blue designation band, edged with a gold roped border and bearing the name “USS CLEVELAND” at the top and “LCS 31” at the base.