Shield. The prominent use of the color gold is a reference to Robert Goldman’s last name. Gold is also used in heraldry to denote high achievement and honor. The poplar tree is a symbol indicative of life and antiquity, a gift Pharmacist Mate Second Class Robert Goldman was able to bestow upon members of the USS LST-66, the ship he was serving aboard during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. This was one of the most significant naval battles of World War II and the first battle in which the Japanese used airplanes for kamikaze attacks. On November 12th, 1944, the starboard side of the ship was struck by such an attack, wounding many, including Goldman himself. Though he sustained third-degree burns over most of his back and his legs were riddled with shrapnel, Goldman refused to stop tending to his injured and dying mates. The snakes wrapped around the trunk of the tree signify Goldman’s rate as well as the critical medical care he provided during this attack, allowing his mates a second chance at life, represented by the tree. For the courage and bravery displayed during this event, Robert Goldman was awarded the Bronze Star, denoted here by the star at the top of the shield. Borrowed from the Connecticut state coat of arms, the shape of the shield commemorates the area where Goldman grew up and where his legacy continues.
Crest. Bahrain, an island in the Persian Gulf and the original homeport of the USCGC ROBERT GOLDMAN, translates to “two seas” in Arabic. Named for the two seas that border it, the homeport is denoted here by the two waves, one on either side of the shell and pearl. Since the classical era, Bahrain has been known for its abundance of pearls and the subsequent pearl trade that flourished there. The palm leaves enveloping the waves recall the palm tree shown on the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign medal, which Goldman received for his participation. The position of the palms leaves surrounding the waves recalls history’s influence on present day warfighting. The eight stars above all portray the eight battle stars earned by Goldman’s ship, the USS LST-66, during the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign.
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 Coast Guard Officer’s sword and enlisted cutlass represent the authority, professionalism and dedication of the crew in the accomplishment of their mission.
Motto. The motto, “BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY,” is a quotation from shipmate Lt. J.G. Collum J. deGruy regarding Goldman’s heroism. The phrase also appears on Goldman’s recommendation for the Bronze Star Medal. The full quote states: “I was a passenger naval officer aboard the ship at the time of the attack and was in a good position to observe the courage displayed by the pharmacist’s mate, Goldman. His back was badly burned but he refused to even sit down until every one of the other casualties had been treated. In my opinion, such courage was far beyond the call of duty.”
Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a circular white background, enclosed by a dark blue border edged on the outside with a gold rope, inscribed “USCGC ROBERT GOLDMAN” above and “WPC 1142” below.