- The Governor General of Canada
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Robert James Sinclair Gibson
Calgary, Alberta
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
September 16, 2002
Vol. IV, p. 240
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Blazon
Arms
Chequy of nine Azure and Or, four badger paw prints Azure;
Crest
A sea-lion Or winged and queued Azure holding a branding iron Sable;
Motto
CEUMNAICH GU CIÙIN;
Symbolism
Arms
The "chequy" design is a traditional symbol of financial stewardship and therefore refers to Mr. Gibson's career. The badger is a particular symbol associated with Mr. Gibson's Cree heritage and also refers to the badger sporran of the Calgary Highlanders Regiment of which he is the Honorary Colonel.
Crest
The winged sea-lion refers to Mr. Gibson's service in the army and the navy, as well as to his recreational pursuits of flying and sailing. The lion is a favourite animal of his. The branding iron makes reference to his ranch.
Motto
This Scots Gaelic phrase can be interpreted as either "Walk softly" or "Tread lightly", implying the importance of acting with care. It also connects to the paw prints in the arms.