The flag of Belize features a blue field with red stripes at the top and bottom, and it prominently displays the national coat of arms in the center. The coat of arms showcases a shield with a mahogany tree, which represents the country's forestry industry, and two men—one of Mestizo descent and one of African descent—holding tools symbolizing the logging industry. Surrounding the coat of arms is a wreath of 50 leaves, which represents the 50th anniversary of the country's independence. The blue stripes represent the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, while the red stripes symbolize the blood shed for independence. The flag was officially adopted on September 21, 1988, during Belize's independence celebrations.