- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
John Mackay
Sidney, British Columbia
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
September 15, 2003
Vol. IV, p. 310
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Blazon
Arms
Azure on an open book Argent winged Or a Spitfire aircraft diving in bend Azure, in base a bighorn sheep's head caboshed Or;
Crest
Issuant from a circlet of mullets Argent, a bison statant Or;
Motto
¡CUIDADO!;
Symbolism
Arms
Both the Spitfire and the wings recall Mr. MacKay’s distinguished career as a pilot in World War II. The book celebrates his career in aviation instruction, and the head of the bighorn sheep was a symbol of Squadron 401, Mr. MacKay’s unit in World War II.
Crest
The stars are a reference to an important element in the Costa Rican coat of arms and symbolize Mr. MacKay’s residence there. The bison celebrates his birthplace in Manitoba, and it also represents attributes of strength and determination.
Motto
This is a Spanish expression meaning “Be careful”.