in command. The ship was homeported in San Diego and was part of Destroyer Squadron 23. She was sunk on July 14, 2016, during the major naval exercise RIMPAC 2016. Crest Like all heraldic Navy insignias, Thachs crest has special meaning. The blue and gold colors are traditionally associated with the Navy; blue for the sea and gold for excellence. The pair of wings in the upper crest refers to Admiral Thach's contributions to naval aviation as a pilot and leader. One of the contributions to naval aviation as a pilot and leader was his invention of the "Thach Weave," symbolized by the interlaced silver chevrons. This two-plane fighter tactic, used to cover each other from enemy fighters, is still used by fighter aircraft today. The three-pronged trident is shown pointing down from the sky, symbolizing naval aviation's role of projecting power from the sky and the sea. The three tines of the trident also represent Fight Squadron Three, the unit Admiral Thach commanded during early Pacific carrier battles in World War II. The cross within its outlined border and the wreath refer to Admiral Thach's first and second awards of the Navy Cross and the Navy Distinguished Service Medal. The anchor in the center of the insignia focused attention on the nautical nature of both Admiral Thach's service to his country. The ship's motto, "Ready and Able", was representative of Admiral Thach's preparation and success. Gallery References External links navysite.de: USS Thach MaritimeQuest USS Thach FFG-43 pages Navy.mil March 2006 article on Bahamas goodwill mission USS Thach (FFG-43) command histories – Naval History & Heritage Command: 1984 • 1985 • 1987 • 1988 • 1989 • 1990 • 1991 • 1992 • 1993 • 1994 • 1995 • 1996 • 1999 • 2000 • 2001 • 2002 Ships built in Los Angeles 1982 ships Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates of the United States Navy Maritime incidents in 2016 Ships sunk as targets Shipwrecks in the Pacific Ocean