the symbolism behind USCGC Vincent Danz’s crest

Shield 

On September 11, 2001, nineteen terrorists operating under the al-Qaeda extremist network hijacked four commercial airplanes and intentionally flew them into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. As the attacks transpired and the World Trade Center burned, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Coast Guard Reservist and New York Police Department Officer Vincent “Vinny” Danz put the safety of others before himself and rushed into the buildings to rescue those trapped inside. This selfless act would ultimately cost Danz his life as first the south, then the north tower succumbed to the intense damage and fire. It was the most lethal terrorist attack in history and would become known as one of the darkest days in American history. This darkness is referenced in the top portion of the shield. Atop this black field two heraldic pallets proudly stand in resemblance to the Twin Towers, their brilliance a pronounced foil to the darkness surrounding them. Weaving through them is a pair of red chevronels, referencing Danz’s rank as a Petty Officer 2nd Class, and expressing his legacy as forever connected to the heroism that the atrocities of that day necessitated. The chevronels point upward, emulating a valiant forward momentum toward danger — a hallmark Danz exemplified. A scalloped partition evokes the movement of water, defining the base of the shield as a representation of New York Harbor and illustrating the purpose of the cutter to protect and serve from the sea. Below this a display of stars taken from the ribbon of the NYPD Medal of Honor, a commendation Danz received posthumously in the wake of the attacks, highlights service and sacrifice as the central force in the life of Vincent Danz.

Supporters

The crossed officer’s sword and chief petty officer’s cutlass symbolize the foundational unity between the officer corps and enlisted personnel. This pairing represents mutual respect, shared responsibility and seamless teamwork that are essential to the crew's collective strength and mission success.

Motto

The motto “NEVER FORGET” refers to the collective vow of the American people to remember the victims of the 9/11 attacks and honor the first responders who were lost in their efforts to rescue them.

Seal 

The coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a circular white background, edged gold, enclosed by a dark blue border edged on the outside with a gold rope, inscribed “USCGC VINCENT DANZ” above and below “WPC 1162” in gold.