English: The seal of Marine Corps Base Quantico bears the heraldic symbols and coat-of-arms, which represent the institutional traditions and mission of the base and its subcommands that have evolved since Quantico’s founding in 1917. The Dolphin depicted above the shield symbolizes swiftness and strength of body and mind, and is synonymous with amphibious operations for which the U.S. Marine Corps is renowned and which were developed at Quantico. The rope or “wreath” represents the joining of practice and theory. The gear wheel with lightning bolt represents mechanical and communications research and development. The oil lamp is the traditional lamp of light, truth and knowledge, which symbolizes the various academic institutions aboard Quantico. The crossed officers’ swords symbolize Quantico’s commitment to the making and professional advancement of officers in the U.S. Marine Corps. The banner with the Latin inscription “Semper Progredi” translates into English as “Always Forward” the motto of Marine Corps Base Quantico.