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The shield outline for the crest is of French origin and represents the French contribution to the state's heritage.

The deep blue and gold colors are traditionally associated with the U.S. Navy and symbolize the sea and excellence. The gold also represents vigilance, which is the Trident submarine mission. The red represents the courage and conviction of the Trident Submarine crew. The green and light blue represent the serene wilderness and coastal environment indigenous to Maine and the peace that the Trident submarine guarantees.

The total of 23 stars identify Maine as the 23rd state in the Union. The large star at top center replicates the North Star from the Maine State Seal and represents USS MAINE (SSBN 741). The two intermediate-sized stars and the dates represent the commissioning of the two previous United States warships named for the state.

The focus of the crest is on a Trident submarine headed out to sea at daybreak to begin her mission of solitary patrol.

The lighthouse illustrates Maine's coastline and tradition of maritime vigilance. The 16 beams of light from the lighthouse represent the 16 counties in the State of Maine and symbolize USS MAINE's place as the sixteenth Trident submarine.

The farmer with his scythe and the sailor with an anchor represent tools of the land and sea and are drawn from the Maine State Seal. The pine boughs crossed on the trident and the pine tree ridge further reflect the state's natural wilderness resources.

The trident is the traditional symbol of sea power. It further represents the formidable weapon system the ship carries. The trident's bottom spike pierces the motto, anchoring it, and points towards the ocean depths where the ship patrols.

The ship's motto shield supports the entire crest. In the motto, "PEACE" is set off and embraced by the "LEADERSHIP" and "VIGILANCE" that make it possible. "LEADERSHIP" also has a direct tie to the state motto "DIRIGO - I LEAD."