The official crest of the USS MOOSBRUGGER symbolizes the dedication and courage displayed by her namesake, Admiral Moosbrugger, during World War II.
The trident, an attribute of Neptune, god of the seas, represents the awesome strength and dominance of the modern destroyer. It also resembles the letter "M," an allusion to the initial letter of MOOSBRUGGER, the ship's namesake.
Through the heraldic fountain for water, the grappling iron (a device used for close range, early naval encounters), and the torpedo, the crest commemorates the Vella Gulf incident in the South Pacific during World War II. The then Commander Moosbrugger led his ships into exceedingly close range against Japanese Naval Forces; took the enemy by surprise, and delivered a devastating torpedo attack, thereby annihilating the hostile force. For this action, he was awarded the Navy Cross. The gold laurel wreath is symbolic of Vice Admiral Frederick Moosbrugger's long and distinguished career.