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THE VIPER EMBLEM
Since Eric the Red first came to North America over 1,000 years ago, warriors have carried with them colors to be raised in victory. Two hundred years ago the Colonies were struggling for their identity and independence. A fledgling Revolutionary Navy created the "Rattlesnake Flag" with the motto "Don't Tread on Me" as a symbol of unity and their willingness to fight for freedom…
Today, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 48 carries on this naval tradition with the VIPER EMBLEM of green and gold. The color gold symbolizes adherence to nothing less than the highest standards of excellence; the color green the envy of those who can only aspire to belong to this elite group. The sun depicted neither rises nor sets on any of the seven seas without witnessing an ominous VIPER constantly on the alert. The multi-faceted capabilities of this treacherous reptile are clearly demonstrated as it simultaneously conducts its primary missions of Undersea and Surface Warfare. The data link of LAMPS MKII, shown as the "electronic" horizon, provides the critical synergism between the airborne VIPERS and their parent ship. There is not an ocean deep or broad enough for an enemy to hide from the crushing coils and poisonous fangs of the clear-eyed, deadly VIPER. The VIPER always seeks the challenge of battle!