Shield. The dark blue shield depicts the early morning of May 13, 1862, when former slave, and later politician, Robert Smalls commandeered a Confederate ship, the CSS PLANTER, and gained freedom by sailing it into a Union fort located in the Beaufort–Port Royal–Hilton Head, South Carolina area. The white wavy fess represents a sea foam path to freedom. The ship's helm symbolizes the CSS PLANTER and highlights Smalls' expertise and background as an enslaved helmsman. The golden eight-pointed star at the center of the wheel commemorates Smalls' military career as the first African American to become a Union captain of the same ship he sailed. In addition, the golden star is attributed to him as a guiding light for the African American community throughout his political career. The golden orle is a heraldic element embodying preservation, which points to his commitment to enshrine his freedom and that of others. The broken chains illustrate Robert Smalls and the slaves onboard the CSS PLANTER breaking free from the confines of slavery. Additionally, the broken chains convey the resilience and endurance that Smalls and others in his position clung to in the face of oppression.
Crest. The rising sun symbolizes Smalls’ victory in escaping slavery and starting a new life as a free man. The five prominent sunrays portray the five terms that Smalls served in the House of Representatives. The sixteen golden stars denote the slaves who were onboard the CSS PLANTER and freed due to Robert Smalls' heroic actions. The palm branches allude Robert Smalls' home state of South Carolina. Moreover, they reflect his Gullah heritage, which is an ethnic group primarily found in the salt marsh regions of the Lowcountry. The Gullah people are known for preserving their African culture and language.
Supporters. The cannons refer the combat missions of the CSS PLANTER and the USS ROBERT SMALLS. The cannons were aboard the CSS PLANTER at the time of Smalls’ escape and his surrender of the ship and weapons aided the Union forces. The mission of USS ROBERT SMALLS is to track and target threats using a variety of weapons.
Motto. The motto, “FREEDOM THROUGH COURAGE” embodies Smalls’ courage and determination to escape slavery despite the risks and danger. Furthermore, the motto epitomizes Smalls’ activism in civil rights and politics.
Seal. The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oval background, enclosed by a dark blue border edged on the outside with a gold rope, inscribed “USS ROBERT SMALLS” above and below “CG 62”, all white.