The new USS South Dakota Navy Submarine is getting closer to being christened next year, and in action in 2018.  Building up to the date of completion, a committee has now revealed the final crest design for the submarine that will be work and home for 132 fleet members.

The USS SOUTH DAKOTA (SSN 790)  new submarine will be one of the most innovative fast-attack submarines in the U.S. Navy fleet.

Look closely and you'll see Mount Rushmore, pheasant feathers, coyotes, wheat and a sun shape used in 1909 on the state’s original flag.

Committee Chairwoman and retired Navy Captain Debra Bodenstedt is proud of the crest:

I think the crest is an awesome representation of South Dakota’s fighting spirit, heritage and history.  We’ve been working for nearly a year to develop the crest. Crew members, along with a wide variety of volunteers, have contributed. We couldn’t be happier with the final design.

 

Over the past year, over 70 South Dakotans joined a design contest, submitting ideas and graphics.  All of those ideas were brought together in the final design, which was given final approval by the submarine’s chain of command.

Commanding Officer Ron Withrow with the Pre-Commissioning Unit describes the importance of the crest.

One of the most identifying symbols of our ship is our crest. It provides the crew with an identity and serves as a symbol of our mission and culture. The crest will be used in a wide variety of ways including flags, hats and banners.

Keep looking closer at the logo for the graphics of 13 stars representing the 13 battles fought by the original USS SD battleship in World War II, a T-Rex Skull of Sue wrapped around Mt. Rushmore, and a rattlesnake to represent stealth and speed.

The motto is also embedded in the crest.  Translated from Latin, it says Under the Sea We Rule


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