SHIELD
Azure (Dark Blue), a Tomahawk cruise missile and a torpedo heads to chief Or, the torpedo warhead Argent, debruised by a cross Argent bearing a trident superimposed by three arrows bendwise in pale Proper.
CREST
On a wreath Or and Azure (Dark Blue), a demi-Aegis array Sable charged with an oriental dragon Or, beneath a mullet of the like, all entwined by a riband of the same edged Azure and Gules and doubled Azure (Dark Blue).
MOTTO
A scroll Azure (Dark Blue) edged Gules and inscribed "ALWAYS VICTORIOUS" in Argent (White) letters.
SEAL
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color upon a white oval enclosed by a dark blue collar edged on the outside with a gold rope and bearing the inscription "USS CAPE ST. GEORGE" at top and "CG 71" in base all in gold.
SHIELD
Blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the U.S. Navy. White and red, the colors of the flag of St. George, stand for integrity and courage. The cross refers to St. George and the ship's name, while recalling the classic sea battle at Cape St. George in the World War II Pacific Theater. The torpedo alludes to the primary weapon used in that engagement; the missile refers to the modern weaponry with which CG 71 is equipped. The trident, symbolizing naval power, is surmounted by three Indian arrows, recalling the nickname, "Little Beavers," by which DESRON 23 became known, as well as alluding to the three enemy ships sunk in the battle.
CREST
The capabilities of the Aegis system are represented by the stylized black demi-array; the dragon symbolizes Japan. The swords and star recall the many honors and awards of the destroyers of Squadron 23 and allude to a strong and ready defense. They are intertwined by a ribbon in the colors of the Presidential Unit Citation, which was awarded to the U.S. destroyers engaged in the Battle of Cape St. George. Silver and gold symbolize integrity and excellence; black represents power and steadfastness and recalls the nighttime engagement.