Crest Symbology

The focal point of the USS Key West's crest is the Conch Shell, the fabled horn of the Greek God Triton and the symbol of the USS Key West's namesake city--Key West, Florida.

A submarine emerges from the shell, just as Key West emerges as the leading city of the Florida Keys. The submarine is steaming in a southwesterly direction, symbolizing the direction that the Florida Keys point into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.

The colors are symbolic of the National Ensign and Naval tradition.

The submarine insignia (Dolphins) symbolizes the heritage that the ship has with all past and future submarines.

The motto "Liberate Clavis Tenacitas et Ingenium" translates to "The Key to Freedom is Tenacity and Resourcefulness." The phrase "The Key to Freedom" represents the namesake city and the ship's mission to protection of the fundamental rights and liberties of the American people. The phrase "Tenacity and resourcefulness" was used by the Mayor of Key West during his speech at the ship's launching to describe the characteristics of a true Conch--a native of Key West. Additionally, "Ingenium" is the word used by the ancient Greek historians to describe the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Hercules during his exploits as a sailor.

Paraphrased from original article by FT1/SS Glenn W. Kemmerer