- The Governor General of Canada
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John Robert Colombo
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
July 20, 2007
Vol. V, p. 159
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Blazon
Arms
Azure a griffin segreant Or holding in its dexter claw a ram’s horn and in its sinister claw an open book Argent, in chief a triquetra, on a chapé embowed Or two doves respectant Azure;
Crest
A phoenix Azure issuant from flames Or and charged with a snowflake Argent;
Motto
ALERT • ALACER • ALERTE;
Symbolism
Arms
The doves (Colombo in Italian) represent Mr. Colombo’s name. The triangular emblem represents the three children of him and of his wife Ruth Brown. The griffin symbolizes Mr. Colombo’s interest in fantastic beasts. Also known as a guardian of treasure, its holding of the book represents Mr. Colombo’s literary accomplishments. The curved lines symbolize curtains being opened to reveal mysteries. The ram’s horn alludes to the former name of his wife’s father, Baransky (meaning “keeper of the rams”).
Crest
The phoenix is a symbol of renascence. The snowflake alludes to his membership in the Order of Canada.
Motto
Meaning “Alert” in English, Latin and French.