Blazon

Shield:  Argent, a torteau adaised debruised by a pile azure bearing a demi-battle axe or charged with a mullet of the first.

Crest:  On a wreath of the colors (argent and gules) a cross patee convex azure enflamed proper charged with a lion's face or.

Motto:  On a tripartite scroll azure double gules, the motto, "COURAGE VALOR INTEGRITY" in white letters.

Symbolism

Shield:  Dark blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy as they recall the sea and excellence.  red is emblematic of valor and courage; white represents integrity.  The battle axe is adapted from the Stout family's coat of arms.  Its upright position underscores USS STOUT's massive firepower and high survivability whle the double axe head, facing both ways, alludes to the all emcompassing offensive and defensive power of the intergrated AEGIS combat systems.  The star highlights Admiral Stout's many awards, as well as reference to the Silver Star.  With resolute courage and daring aggressiveness, Admiral Stout, as Commanding Officer of the destroyer USS CLAXTON, aided his task force in sinking five heavily armed, enemy warships to establish our beachhead on Bougainville Island.  This Naval battle is symbolized by the blue wdege piercing the red field; the blue wedge representing Admiral Stout and United States Naval forces disabling and destroying a surface force of superior fire power, signified by the red field.

Crest:  The cross suggests the Navy Cross, one of many decorations awarded to Admiral Stout, and exemplifies the strong devotion to God and Country that characterized Admiral Stout's Navval career and now reminds us that no STOUT sailor stands alone.  It is enflamed to recall the fierce bombardmanet of the Naval battle in the Solomon Islands.  The lion, a symbol of courage, strength and tactical hunting skills, commemorates Rear Admiral Stout and the men and officers who served under his leadership, and to those who now continue that tradition serving in the Guided Missle Destroyer STOUT (DDG 55).