The USS James K. Polk SSBN 645 is named after the 11th President of The United States of America, James Knox Polk, who was born November 2, 1795 in Pineville, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

His nickname was ‘Young Hickory’. He was elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives in 1823, elected to the U.S. House in 1825 and served there until 1839. While in the House, he served as Speaker from 1835 to 1839.

Polk was elected Governor of Tennessee in 1839, and elected President in 1844 (Democratic Party). James K. Polk died on June 15, 1849.

The burst of sun in the western sky and the eagle in flight symbolize the Spread Eagle Platform, on which James K. Polk campaigned for the presidency to which he was elected in 1844. President Polk sought and achieved territorial expansion to the country’s natural western borders. This vast area, as we know it now, encompasses nine western states of the Union.

The four stars represent the major land areas acquired during President Polk’s term of office – the California Territory, New Mexico Territory, Texas Statehood, and the Oregon Territory.

The field of blue stands for the unity of purpose among the several states and territories for which Polk strove so hard. Finally, the gold edge surrounding the field of blue reflects the foundation of a formal course of education and preparation for Naval Officers at the United States Naval Academy, founded in 1845.

The Polk Insignia was designed by Ruth McMullen, wife of Commander Frank McMullen, the 1st Blue crew CO.

Ships Awards

Battle ‘E’, October 1990, under SUBRON 16