File:USS Colorado Hi rez final-1024x654.jpg

English: Insignia of the U.S. Navy submarine USS Colorado (SSN-788):

Official description: "The crest of USS Colorado (SSN-788) is contained within the silhouette of the head of a charging mustang, symbolizing the determined nature of the great state of Colorado. This nature of unbridled determination will carry on in the attitude of the crew of USS Colorado. The fundamental elements of the background are derived from the Colorado state Above the waterline lies the white, snow-covered Rocky Mountains standing tall over the landscape and concealing destructive power within their icy ridges. These mountains represent the mighty and majestic nature of submarines. Upon the reflection in the water rests a submarine, representing USS Colorado, transiting forward, into the unknown. Along the collar of the horse lie seven stars that represent the Battle Stars awarded to the battleship USS Colorado (BB-45) for exemplary service in World War II, and reflect the spirit of excellence present in the crew aboard the new USS Colorado. Finally, the Latin motto, Terra Marique Indomita translates to “untamed by land and sea”. Although only three words and a straightforward translation, the motto actually has three distinct meanings:
Terra Indomita: The first part above the water, recognizes the state of Colorado standing untamed by land throughout history;
Marique Indomita: The second part from the reflection, recognizes the submarine, USS Colorado, standing untamed by the sea;
Terra Marique Indomita: Together, the motto recognizes the spirit of USS Colorado, both the ship and her crew, a spirit that remains untamed by the rugged terrain and weather extremes of land, and untamed by the rough waves and dark depths of the sea."

Development of the insignia: From late 2014 into early 2015, the USS Colorado (SSN-788) Commissioning Committee coordinated a competition to design the official crest of the USS Colorado. In April 2015, after receiving over l 00 submissions from all across the world, the Commissioning Committee and the crew of PCU Colorado evaluated the submissions and ultimately selected the design of Michael F. Nielson, to serve as the ship’s official crest. After the selection, the designer was contacted to provide some personal background information and finalize the design. It was at that time the command and the Commissioning Committee learned that the designer was both a naval officer and Colorado native who was completing initial training for the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, and had orders to report to PCU Colorado. After completion of his training in October 2015, LTJG Nielson reported to PCU Colorado as one of the first two Junior Officers.