Shield. Quarterly Gules and Azure, two square flaunches Argent, superimposed by a bend of fusils conjoined and rebated at each end of the third and of the first, and a bend sinister of fusils conjoined and rebated at each end of the third and of the second, overall a cross potent Or, all within a diminished bordure of the second, surmounted by another of the fourth, bearing two notches, one in dexter chief and one in sinister chief, and issuant from base a demi-spear of the last.
Crest. From a wreath of the colors Argent and Gules, in front of four wavys Azure and Celeste, a castle with three towers Proper surmounting a mount Vert, between two arched palm fronds of the third, in chief a mullet Or.
Motto. On a scroll Azure (Navy Blue), doubled and inscribed in Spanish EXCELENCIA PERSEVERANCIA FUERZA in Or, which translates to EXCELLENCE PERSEVERANCE STRENGTH.
Shield. Blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the U.S. Navy. Together, the colors red, white and blue allude to the flag colors of Puerto Rico and the United States of America. The fusils conjoined and rebated denote unity and cooperation and further suggest strength and fortitude within the crew. The gold cross is taken from the Puerto Rican coat of arms, depicting resilience and sacrifice. The cross is also a symbol of honor, remembering those who serve and have served in the military. The spearhead suggests the class of which USNS PUERTO RICO is a part. It points the way as the ship moves forward to accomplish its mission supporting overseas contingency operations or humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Crest. The wreath adopts the first-named metal and color from the shield and blazon. The castle sits upon a mount, a strong foundation, referring to the island of Puerto Rico and its citizens. It stands proudly and strong, with waves unable to deter it. The palm fronds signify victory and success, as well as the tropical environment of Puerto Rico. The golden star above the castle alludes to Polaris, the brightest star in the celestial sky, once used by sailors for oceanic navigation. The star, along with the three towers, gives the illusion of the Puerto Rican flag hanging vertically.
Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oblong disc within a dark blue designation band, edged with a gold roped border and bearing the name USNS PUERTO RICO at the top and T-EPF 11 at the base.