Description
She was built by Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. At her christening on 1 October 1997 and the vessel was christened by Robin L. Higgins, retired Lieutenant Colonel, USMC, wife of Colonel Higgins, as the ship’s sponsor. “In the name of all that is good and right in the world – Semper Fi – Always Faithful – I christen thee HIGGINS”. Commander James “Red” Smith was the ship’s first commanding officer.
HIGGINS was the first ship off the coast for The Hainan Island incident that occurred on 1 April 2001, when a United States Navy EP-3E ARIES II signals intelligence aircraft and a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) J-8II interceptor fighter jet collided in mid-air, resulting in an international dispute between the United States of America and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on her maiden deployment.
The shield has background of blue with a “V” cutting through the center. The griffin is shown in the “V” wielding an axe and a trident. The traditional Navy colors were chosen for the shield because dark blue, white and gold respectively represent the sea, integrity and excellence. The griffin, holding an axe and a trident, denotes valor and intelligence. The axe indicates her ability and readiness for engaging land based hostilities, while the trident symbolizes her modern weapon systems, giving her air combat and undersea engagement versatility. The “V” of the shield represents victory and the clover leaf is for good fortune.
Designed for the brave and fearless sailors aboard the USS Higgins (DDG-76) destroyer, this impressive belt buckle pays tribute to the ship and her crew. Whether this is worn proudly on a uniform aboard ship, off duty, or displayed in a shadow box, this striking belt buckle designed for USS Higgins (DDG-76) sailors makes a perfect gift, souvenir, or award for service for any enlisted sailor, relative, or loved one. Wear your pride today.
This belt buckle measures a 3 inch x 2 inch (75mm x 51mm) rectangle.
This is a surplus NWTM item. Packaging may vary.
