The herald of USS NORRIS was originally designed to adhere to the more traditional practices of heraldry. For example, the lion is in a very traditional posture, a fighting stance, which is particularly described as "rampant", that befits a man-of-war. The lion has stood foremost in English heraldry as the symbol of courage, fortitude, and all nobleness; again quite fitting to the purpose of any destroyer and particularly relevant to NORRIS.
The addition of fins and/or fish-like tail was common in the Middle Ages to form a type of chimerical being. This aptly references NORRIS' life's environment. It is also of interest to note that the battle axe is held in the dexterous position; that is, in the right arm from which strength is presumably derived. The axe in the coat of arms of NORRIS represents her strength and power from the fear and respect commanded by soldiers who wielded the axe in battle.
The oak leaves pictured on the vertical side banners represent the memory of the man for whom the ship is named. The rank of Major is signified by the gold leaves. And the most obvious portion of the crest are the words "Fideliter Serva" which literally translated is "Faithful Servant"- Faithful Servant to her country for the past twenty-five years, USS NORRIS DD-859.
COMMANDER ESCORT DESTROYER SQUADRON SIX
U.S.S. FRED T. BERRY ( DDE858 ), FLAGSHIP
C/O FLEET POST OFFICE
NEW YORK, N.Y.
19 March 1951
From; Commander Escort Destroyer Squadron Six
To: Brigg, William E. 229 09 61, SO3, USN
Subj: Commendation
The Squadron Commander wishes to express his appreciation for the excellent services you have performed in connection with establishing the Escort Destroyer Division 61 insignia. The enthusiam and initiative displayed by you and your very excellent ability reflects the quality and spirit of service tht is most desirable in the Navy. Well done!
