SHIELD
Azure (Dark Blue) on a cross formy throughout Or between in chief two mullets Argent, a hexagon voided of the second charged with three piles wavy reversed Celeste.
CREST
On a wreath Or and Azure (Dark Blue) an anchor Or mantled Gules doubled Argent seme of mullets of the second overall atop the anchor, a stylized Medal of Honor of the first.
SUPPORTERS
Behind the shield two U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer cutlasses in saltire, points upward, Argent (Silver Gray), garnished Sable.
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 gold chain links, ninety-five in number with an additional lock link in base, and inscribed "USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS" at top and "DDG 95" at base in gold.
SHIELD
Dark blue and gold are the colors representing the Navy. The gold cross formy represents the Navy Cross awarded to James Williams for extraordinary heroism during operations on the Mekong River in Vietnam. The hexagon refers to the Navy Commendation Medal awarded to him for heroic actions, again during the conflict in Vietnam. The three wavy piles reversed symbolize the delta of the Mekong River where Williams distinguished himself in so many engagements against enemy forces. His two awards of the Silver Star are recognized by the stars at the top of the shield.
CREST
The anchor represents the U.S. Navy. The mantle draped over it symbolizes sacrifice and unusual courage; the stars on the doubling denote James Williams' multiple awards and leadership capabilities. The inverted star represents the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration the United States can bestow upon a service member. Together, the colors of the mantle represent the United States.
SUPPORTERS
Two enlisted cutlasses refer to James Williams' status as an enlisted sailor and his readiness and commitment to engage vigorously any enemy force.
MOTTO
"LEAD FROM THE FRONT," inscribed in gold on a dark blue scroll doubled scarlet.
SYMBOLISM
The ninety-five chain links surrounding the seal refer to the ship's hull number.