SHIELD
Azure (Dark Blue), on a pale Argent, between two lions combatant Or, armed of the second, langued Gules, each charged in dexter with a cross patte convexed Khaki, fimbriated of the first, surmounted by a roundel of the fifth and in sinister with a heart Purpure; three chevronels embowed and couped of the fourth in chief and in base an Aztec war eagle Sable; on a base Argent (Steel), a compass rose of the second fimbriated of the first.
SUPPORTERS
Behind the shield, a rifle palewise Sable, muzzle downward, the rifle stock supporting a helm Proper, surmounted by a U.S. Navy Officer sword and U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer cutlass in saltire, points upward, all Proper.
MOTTO
On a scroll Azure lined Or, the Latin inscription FORTIS AD FINEM, which translates to Courageous to the End Argent.
SHIELD
Dark blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy, representing the sea and excellence. The two lions, adapted from the Mexican Federal District Coat of Arms where Sgt. Peralta was born, symbolize his bravery and act of courage when, despite his wounds, he saved the lives of his fellow Marines. Each lion bears the commendations awarded for his selfless act--the Navy Cross on the left and the Purple Heart to the right, both awarded posthumously. The pale denotes naval strength and displays three arched and couped chevronels, indicating Sgt. Peraltas military rank while serving in the Marines. The war eagle honors his Aztec heritage. The gray base suggests the prow of a ship, highlighting the vessels namesake, USS RAFAEL PERALTA (DDG 115). The compass rose emphasizes the worldwide scope and the ships capabilities of integrated air and missile defense, anti-surface warfare, undersea warfare and amphibious readiness group support.
SUPPORTERS
The Marine Corps helmet with desert pattern cover positioned on the rifle stock is a tribute to the fallen Marine. The crossed Navy Officer sword and Navy Chief Petty Officer cutlass symbolizes the collaboration and teamwork of the officers and crew members of the RAFAEL PERALTA. The swords are tips up, signifying a crew that is ready for battle.
MOTTO
The Latin motto, FORTIS AD FINEM, commemorates Sgt. Peraltas character while serving in Iraq, Courageous to the End.
SEAL
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oval encircled by a red designation band, edged with a gold rope and bearing the name USS RAFAEL PERALTA at the top and DDG 115 at base, all gold. Red and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Marine Corps. The red circular design conveys Sgt. Peraltas eternal sacrifice.