Shield. The shield honors Coast Guard service member Chief Warrant Officer Frederick Mann for his gallantry during the Guadalcanal campaign on August 7, 1942. Amid the chaos aboard the USS GEORGE ELLIOT, Mann confronted a rapidly spreading fire ignited by a downed enemy bomber that had crashed near the ship. As flames tore across the deck and threatened the ammunition magazine, Mann acted without hesitation. The silver star set against a black quarter highlights Mann’s resolve and bravery in the face of life-threatening conditions—thick smoke, suffocating heat, and lack of oxygen—as he fought to suppress the flames within the ship’s interior. The star further signifies his receipt of the Silver Star Medal, awarded for his heroic actions that day. The enflamed grenades symbolize the explosive threat within the magazine that Mann worked tirelessly to contain, highlighting the immense risk he faced and the critical nature of his response. The golden quarters with radiating red rays reflect both the intensity of the fire and the greater danger surrounding him as the Battle of Guadalcanal raged in the background. Despite overwhelming odds and an unsalvageable vessel, Mann’s decisive actions ensured the safe evacuation of all aboard. His courage under fire is immortalized in the elements of this seal, a testament to selfless service and unwavering valor.
Crest. The watchtower stands for Operation Watchtower, the codename for the Guadalcanal campaign. It further alludes to the enduring mission of the USCGC FREDERICK MANN to safeguard and patrol designated waters. The glaciers and Big Dipper constellation point to the cutter’s homeport location of Alaska. The glacial imagery stands in contrast to the harrowing conditions Mann faced during the fiery events aboard the USS GEORGE F. ELLIOT. Together, these elements reflect a legacy defined by resilience and link Mann’s valor in wartime to the steadfast duty carried out in peacetime waters.
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 crossed sword and cutlass represent the officers and enlisted crew that sail the ship, demonstrating teamwork and cooperation.
Motto. The motto, “COURAGE THROUGH FIRE,” celebrates Mann’s heroism during the Pacific theater of World War II, for which he was awarded the Silver Star medal. The coloration of the scroll is adapted from the medal’s ribbon. His bravery lives on in the crew of the USCGC FREDERICK MANN, who embody his spirit as they navigate unpredictable and perilous waters.
Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a circular light blue background, enclosed by a dark blue border edged on the outside with a gold rope, inscribed “USCGC FREDERICK MANN” above and below “WPC 1160” in gold letters.