In the Autumn of 1775, Commodore Erik Hopkins readied the Continental Navy on the Delaware River. The signal to attack the British Navy came in the form of a striped jack. The uncoiled rattlesnake represents America's willingness to strike when provoked. Today the flag flies on all U.S. Navy warships. The Don't Tread on Me flag hat has a Salt-Wash™ to create a weathered, heavily sun bleached look.