Symbolism
SHIELD
br> Dark blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy. The anchor interlaced with the officer's and enlisted swords symbolize sea prowess and teamwork. The AEGIS system's octagonal shape highlights the modern weaponry of DDG 53 with its anti-air, surface, sub-surface, and strike warfare capabilities. The white border with the thirteen black rivets represents day and night vigilance, solidity, and determination. The number of rivets, resembling cannon balls, also recalls the thirteen colonies and the naval guns used by John Paul Jones in battle.
CREST
The portrait is of John Paul Jones, father of the American Navy. His heroism against larger and better equipped forces established a naval tradition that has never been forgotten. The naval gun represents weaponry of that period.
SUPPORTERS
The flags were displayed by John Paul Jones on his warships. The thirteen star flag commemorates the most famous Revolutionary War naval battle, during which John Paul Jones captured the Serapis. The rattlesnake "Don't Tread On Me" flag reflects the temperament of the times.
Seal
The coat of arms as blazoned in full color upon a white oval edged on the outside with a gold rope and inscribed USS JOHN PAUL JONES at the top and DDG 53 at the bottom
