SHIELD:
Per fess wavy Celeste and Argent, issuing from chief a demi-sun in splendor, overall on a pile reversed Gules a demi-trident issuing from base Or supported by a dexter and a sinister gauntlet issuant from dexter and sinister Proper.
CREST
From a wreath Argent and Celeste, a demi-dragon Gules garnished Or and Vert grasping a stylized shield Argent charged with a hurt fimbriated Or and bearing a mullet of the like.
MOTTO
A tripartite scroll Azure doubled and inscribed "STRENGTH AND FREEDOM" Argent.
SUPPORTERS
A U.S. Navy officer's sword and a U.S. Marine officer's mameluke saltirewise points down Proper.
SEAL
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color upon a white background and enclosed within a dark blue collar edged on the outside with a gold rope and inscribed "USS RUSSELL" at top and "DDG 59" at base in gold.
SHIELD
Dark blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy. Gold is emblematic of excellence, and red denotes valor and sacrifice. The red wedge and the trident symbolize DDG 59's modern warfare cap abilities--the Aegis and Vertical Launch Systems. The three tines represent submarine, surface and air warfare. The wedge superimposed on the wave alludes to Major General Russell's leadership and vision in the development of the Fleet Marine Force and amphibious doctrine. The two gauntlets symbolize the two Russells and highlight teamwork and cooperation. The wavy division of the shield represents a river and underscores Rear Admiral Russell's service in coastal and river campaigns during the Mexican War and the Civil War. The sun and light blue reflect the tropical climate of the Gulf Coast and the Caribbean-referring to both Russells' service in the Gulf of Mexico and, especially, John Russell, Jr.'s extended service in Haiti. The sun and light blue also highlight the south and west Pacific service of the first USS RUSSELL (DD 414) in World War II.
CREST
The sixteen-sided shield and star commemorate the first USS RUSSELL's sixteen battle stars earned during World War II. The gold star also denotes command and authority. The stylized Oriental dragon symbolizes strength, vigilance and service in the Orient and Pacific.
SUPPORTERS
The crossed Naval officer sword and Marine mameluke signify the special relationship between the Navy and Marine Corps in projecting power from the sea. The unique character of Naval service is embodied in the Russell family where two distinguished officers, father and son, served their respective services and their country with honor on land and sea.