Navy Models New Snake Helmet Design on ‘Don’t Tread On Me’ Flag

During Next weekend’s Army-Navy game, the US Navy will replace its traditional football uniform with a new helmet design featuring a coiled snake, a design that pays homage to the famed “Don’t Tread On Me” flag.

In a second reference to the flag, on the back of the helmet, the team also added the famous slogan. It is all in tribute to the Gadsden Flag, the yellow Navy banner that features a coiled snake and the warning, “Don’t Tread On Me.” The flag was created in 1775 by Colonel John Gadsden and used by the Navy and the Continental Marines during the American Revolution. Since then, the flag has served as a symbol of dogged American determination and a will for freedom.

Navy will also introduce red, white, and blue colored cleats and “Don’t Tread On Me” Gloves. The snake will also appear over a background of red and white striped sleeve decorations adorning the uniform to be debuted during the upcoming Army-Navy game.

Navy Tweeted out its new helmet before the game telling fans that the snake motif was “inspired” by the Gadsden flag.

Navy’s @UnderArmour helmet for the #ArmyNavy game, inspired by the “Don’t Tread On Me” flag. pic.twitter.com/A2C03RpWQ9

— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) December 8, 2014

The @UAFootball “Don’t Tread On Me” uniform that Navy football will wear for #ArmyNavy. http://t.co/MLeJpSY1GC pic.twitter.com/mFGqiuTjlf

— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) December 8, 2014

Under Armour cleats that @NavyAthletics will wear for Army-Navy game pic.twitter.com/nBMAkIljAD

— Drren Rvell (@darrenrovell) December 9, 2014

@darrenrovell @dcsportsbog @PhilHecken @Uniformswag @UniWatch @eyeonannapolis @CollegeGameDay @CBSSports @ALaForce pic.twitter.com/9o5yrKpISH

— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) December 9, 2014

Navy will face Army on December 13.

Follow Warner Todd Huston on Twitter @warnerthuston or email the author at igcolonel@hotmail.com