USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3)

Coat of Arms

The official seal of Belleau Wood is a blend of symbols. An image of a fighting U.S. Marine is at the center of the plaque. The leatherneck is in World War I battle dress. He carries a rifle with bayonet, and seems to be beckoning someone to follow him. Surrounding the figure are the gold cross, shield and swords of the Croix de guerre, the French medal awarded to the Marines who distinguished themselves at Belleau Wood. In that tradition, Marines of the Fourth Brigade are permitted to wear the French fourragère to this day.

Related Topics:
Rifle - Bayonet - Croix de guerre - French - Fourragère

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Twelve gold battle stars in a field of blue line the top of this plaque. They stand for the World War II record of the ship's namesake, USS Belleau Wood (CVL-24). The gap between the sixth and seventh stars represents the ship's only break in her war record. On 30 October 1944, while off Leyte Gulf, Belleau Wood was struck by a kamikaze airplane. The ship then had to undergo repairs and an overhaul, hence the gap.

Related Topics:
USS ''Belleau Wood'' - 30 October - 1944 - Leyte Gulf - Kamikaze

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Blue and gold, prevailing hues of the plaque, are traditional colors of the Navy. The tricolor (red over white over blue) is a reminder that the Battle of Belleau Wood occurred in France, and that Marines who gave their lives at Belleau Wood did so in the defense of another nation's freedom. The segments also bring to mind the colors of the United States.

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