The United States military is filled with plenty of symbolism, which is a good thing. By using symbols, we commemorate and remember goals, objectives, principles, and purpose for the task at hand. The Coast Guard logo is a prime example. Known for its prestige and displayed with honor by those who serve to protect our country, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) actually has a variety of insignias that are used depending on the occasion. Learn more about the many Coast Guard logos representing Coast Guardsmen and our country.

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What Does the Coast Guard Logo Symbolize?

What does the U.S. Coast Guard logo mean? It means freedom. It means honor, respect, and devotion to duty are being met by Coast Guardsmen, living up to their end of their oaths. Though there are different logos available, each U.S. Coast Guard logo helps serve a different purpose from protection to communication and even patriotism.

The Many Insignias of the USCG

When you look into the various Coast Guard Trademarks and Emblems in the service, you soon discover that the symbolism runs deep for Coast Guardsmen. Here's a full look at each Coast Guard logo:

Coast Guard Emblem

The U.S. Coast Guard emblem is red and blue with a white background. Alternatively, it’s also seen with its red and blue sections in black only. Coast Guard red has a hexadecimal color code specifically of PMS 179 C, with Coast Guard blue’s hexadecimal color code being PMS 307 C.

Coast Guard Mark

The Coast Guard mark has the USCG’s emblem with a tri-colored band featuring blue, white, and red. The hexadecimal color codes are Coast Guard blue (PMS 307 C), white, and finally, Coast Guard red (PMS 179 C).

Coast Guard Seal

The Coast Guard seal features crossed anchors with a life ring and a shield. This is surrounded by a line grommet. No one outside of the United States Coast Guard should use the seal in any official capacity. The seal is the main Coast Guard logo in use.

Coast Guard Ensign

The Coast Guard ensign features red stripes that flow up and down but only halfway on the left side of the flag. In the upper left white corner, there's a symbol resembling the Coast Guard standard. In the center on the right is the Coast Guard emblem. Both the standard and emblem are navy blue. This symbol is restricted to the use of the United States Coast Guard law enforcement authority exclusively.

Coast Guard Standard

The Coast Guard standard is what you might see during a celebration. It’s an official Coast Guard logo used during ceremonies or parades, typically adorned by the Coast Guard 34 battle streamers.

The Flag of the Coast Guard

In addition to the USCG logo and various other symbols used by the branch, there's also a flag. The flag of the Coast Guard has a white background with a dark blue Great Seal of the United States and features a shield on the eagle boasting a blue chief on top of vertical red and white stripes. Above the eagle are the words “UNITED STATES COAST GUARD,” and below, it reads “SEMPER PARATUS” with “1790” underneath. If you're looking to use any of the logos, symbols, or emblems, some are available. For more information, the official U.S. Coast Guard trademark and licensing website can help you properly do so.

The United States Coast Guard Logo Is a Sign of Protection & Freedom

As a maritime branch, it only makes sense that these are just some of the current logos and symbols you’ll find connected to the USCG. There are more out there, and some have changed throughout the years to fit the latest needs and objectives of the U.S. military. But no matter which Coast Guard logo you see, they all point to the fact that Coast Guardsmen continue to sacrifice so that Americans are living in a much safer world because of their duty and protection.

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