VLS Launch from USS Ross during sea trials Ship's Crest Gold and dark blue represent the Navy. The lightening flashes symbolize the unexpected assault and the resulting bloodshed. The ship's propeller represents Warrant Officer Ross and the badge of a Navy machinist, a post he held at the time of the action. His heroism during the attack is recalled by the inverted silver star which stands for the medal of honor he won for valor aboard the battleship USS Nevada. The shape of the shield refers to the Aegis armament and capabilities of DDG-71.
Gold stands for excellence, red for courage.
The crossed Navy Officer's sword and cutlass reflect Warrant Officer Ross' service both as enlisted and officer. The night event was chosen to lessen the effects of heat and humidity of Galveston in the summer. Left, The official party. Mrs. Ross, SecNav Dalton and others . This command over the 1MC was followed by the noise of turbines starting, the collision alarm, ships whistle, general alarm, rotation of all antennas and the gun mount while the crew boarded, then manned the rails.