Destroyer USS Benfold

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DESTROYER USS BENFOLD

Official blazon

SHIELD: Per fess wavy (in the manner of a Taeguk) Gules and Azure, a lion rampant Or charged on the shoulder with an escutcheon Argent bearing a cross throughout Gules; a bordure of the third pellety.

CREST: From a wreath Or and Gules a Marine Mameluke and Naval sword saltirewise points up Proper superimposed by a mullet one point down Celeste fimbriated Argent.

SUPPORTERS: On either side of the shield a halberd Proper.

MOTTO: A scroll Sable edged and inscribed “ONWARD WITH VALOR” in Gold.

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 BENFOLD” at top and “DDG 65” in base all in gold.

Origin/meaning

SHIELD: The Aegis shield the capability of DDG 65 to conduct operations in mult-threat environments. Dark Blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy; red is emblematic of valor and sacrifice. The lion embodies valor and strength, symbolizing Hospitalman Benfold’s courage and gallantry. The escutcheon bears a red cross, alluding to Benfold’s medical service and personal sacrifice in saving the lives of others. A background of red above blue in the manner of a Taeguk underscores his service in Korea. The black pellets symbolize the heavy artillery and mortar barrages during his heroic action. CREST: The reversed star, in medium blue and white, denotes the Medal of Honor, which was posthumously awarded to Hospitalman Benfold for his spirit of self - sacrifice and extraordinary heroism. The crossed Navy sword and Marine Mameluke signify cooperation and strength; the Mameluke signifies Benfold’s service with the First Marine Division in Korea. SUPPORTERS: The halberds symbolize vigilance, resolve and battle preparedness while suggesting the USS BENFOLD’S Vertical Launch capabilities.

Literature: Image from Wikimedia Commons

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