The United States Military Academy coat of arms

consists of the a bald eagle sitting amongst olive branches

while proudly displaying its wings in readiness for war

as depicted by arrows held in its talons.

The flourished scroll behind the eagle contains

the USMA motto “Duty, Honor, Country” across from

“West Point, (1802) in Roman Numerals, U.S.M.A.”

(the academy’s location and date of origin)

The tri-colored shield contains the helmet of Pallas Athena,

signifying wisdom, learning and prudent warfare,

backed up by a sheathed sword,

a symbol of battle.