Ship's Crest
DESCRIPTION
Blazon: Paly of nine Gules and Argent, a chief Azure bearing a Fort Lauderdale historical marker Proper.
Crest: The wreath adopts the first-named metal and color from the shield and blazon. The trident is used to symbolize the ship’s ability to strike from the sea. An alligator stands protectively in front of it, representing the “Gator Navy” which refers to a class of Navy ships, including LPDs like the USS FORT LAUDERDALE, that are designed to support Marine Corps operations. These ships carry Marines along with their aircraft, equipment, and supplies to conduct assaults on hostile shores. Used as a symbol of ferocity and strength on both land and sea; the alligator further denotes the amphibious function of the vessel. Alligators are also native to Fort Lauderdale and are expressive of the exotic wildlife and landscape the area is known for.
Supporters: The U.S. Navy Officer sword, U.S. Marine Corps Mameluke, and U.S. Navy and Marine Corps enlisted swords symbolize the synergy between the two services. Furthermore, the placement of the swords represents the leadership and direction provided by commissioned officers, combined with the strength and support of the senior enlisted cadre, forging the foundation of USS FORT LAUDERDALE’s crew and the Navy-Marine Corps Team.
Motto: A scroll Azure, edged Or, with the inscription “TOGETHER WE FIGHT” Argent.
SYMBOLISM
Shield: Red, white, and blue are the National colors as well as the colors used on the Fort Lauderdale city flag and seal. The division of the shield alludes to the shield used on the Great Seal of the United States and is emblematic of Fort Lauderdale’s role in American history. The symbol in chief consisting of a fort with palm tree columns is taken from the Fort Lauderdale historical markers used throughout the city to denote points of interest. Representing the city’s namesake, the symbol also acknowledges the city’s long standing connection to the U.S. Navy. The three palms within the symbol refer to the three forts named "Fort Lauderdale" that existed before construction of the current city. The first fort was at the fork of the New River, the second was just west of Tarpon Bend on the New River, and the third was close to the Bahia Mar Marina.
Crest: The wreath adopts the first-named metal and color from the shield and blazon. The trident is used to symbolize the ship’s ability to strike from the sea. An alligator stands protectively in front of it, representing the “Gator Navy” which refers to a class of Navy ships, including LPDs like the USS FORT LAUDERDALE, that are designed to support Marine Corps operations. These ships carry Marines along with their aircraft, equipment, and supplies to conduct assaults on hostile shores. Used as a symbol of ferocity and strength on both land and sea; the alligator further denotes the amphibious function of the vessel. Alligators are also native to Fort Lauderdale and are expressive of the exotic wildlife and landscape the area is known for.
Supporters: The officer and enlisted Navy and Marine Corps swords honor the bond between the branches as well as pay tribute to the command and crew, representing authority, professionalism, and unity in the accomplishment of their mission.
Motto: The motto "Together We Fight" represents the unstoppable combat power of our Navy -Marine Corps team supported by our families and friends at home.
Seal: The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white oblong disc within a dark blue designation band, edged with a yellow roped border and bearing the name “USS FORT LAUDERDALE” at the top and “LPD 28” at the base; all yellow.