Heraldry

Shield. Azure a pile Or bearing a naval mine in point charged with a head of coyote, issuing from base two wheat spikes arched and crossed in saltire at base, all Proper.

Crest. From a wreath of the colors Or and Azure, a demi-trident of the first between two walleye respectant naiant salient out of water, all Proper.

Supporters. Behind the shield the Navy officer’s sword and the Navy enlisted cutlass in saltire, points down Proper.

Motto. A bi-parted scroll Azure, doubled Celeste, inscribed “ON THE MOVE” on the left and “ON THE HUNT” on the right.

Shield. The blue field represents the littoral domain in which the USS PIERRE (LCS 38) operates. The gold pile symbolizes speed and maneuverability required for minesweeping missions. As a color of abundance, gold highlights the LCS vessel’s capabilities to function in large-scale combat and small-scale operations. The submarine mine embodies the duty of the USS PIERRE (LCS 38) as a Mine Countermeasure Module (MCM) asset to detect, classify, and localize mines. The coyote characterizes the traits of fierceness, strength, and resilience, and its placement upon the mine alludes to the vessel’s efforts of preventing future maritime endangerment. The fully bloomed wheat signifies prosperity and sustenance despite hostile environments. Together, the coyote and wheat honor the state of South Dakota. Both elements refer to the state’s vitality the midst of dry climates.

Crest. The two walleyes depict the state fish of South Dakota, while their sharp teeth and distinct ability to hunt at night aligns with the USS PIERRE’s expertise to detect and disable hidden mines in the seas. The trident acknowledges the vessel’s authority to patrol the seashore.

In heraldry, the wreath (or torse) is a critical element of a coat of arms, it was the twisted band composed of two strips of gold or silver lace and silk by which the crest is joined to the knight’s helmet. The torse is always composed of six twists of material displayed alternately. The first twist is the primary metal color (gold or silver) and the second twist represents the primary color of arms in the shield.

Supporters. The Navy officer’s sword and the Navy enlisted cutlass denote the teamwork and cooperation demonstrated by the crew of the USS PIERRE (LCS 38).

Motto. The ship’s motto, “ONE THE MOVE, ON THE HUNT,” is inspired from the city’s official motto. The motto encompasses the USS PIERRE’s continuous mission to hunt and capture mines through MCM capabilities.

Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oval within a Navy blue designation band, edged with a gold roped border and bearing the name “USS PIERRE” at the top and “LCS 38” at the base in gold.