SHIELD
On a shield formed to represent an Indian arrowhead Or (Dark Gold), between in chief a compass rose Azure and in base a yucca plant Proper, a stylized representation of the Cliff Palace dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans Or.
CREST
On a wreath Or (Dark Gold) and Azure, from a plateau Vert an American bald eagle, wings displayed, grasping in dexter talons a sprig of juniper fructed of twenty-four berries Proper and in sinister talons a trident Argent.
MOTTO
A scroll Argent garnished Or and inscribed "COURAGE TEAMWORK TRADITION" of the second.
SHIELD
Mesa Verde's status as a cultural center and National Park is recalled by the shape of the shield and the representation of the Cliff Palace dwellings. The yucca, an indigenous plant and staple as valuable raw material to early Indian settlers, refers again to the region which gives LPD 19 its name and denotes hardiness and survival. The compass rose symbolizes worldwide capabilities and expertise. Gold signifies achievement and excellence.
CREST
The green plateau represents the Mesa Verde region which gives the ship its name. The bald eagle symbolizes the United States; the juniper sprig it holds represents the numerous and diverse tribes that comprised the region's Indian nation. The trident denotes authority and mastery at sea.
SUPPORTERS
The crossed U.S. Naval Officer's sword and U.S. Marine Corps mameluke symbolize teamwork and readiness, highlighting the experienced crew of USS MESA VERDE.
MOTTO
"COURAGE TEAMWORK TRADITION"