- The Governor General of Canada
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Joseph Henry Serge Malaison
Montréal, Quebec
Grant of Arms, Flags and Badge
January 20, 2012
Vol. VI, p. 93
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Blazon
Arms
Gyronny Or and Azure a griffin segreant Ermine holding in its dexter claw a cross-crosslet fitchy Sable;
Crest
Issuant from a coronet of maple leaves and Maltese crosses Or, a demi-snow leopard proper langued Azure holding in its dexter paw a sword proper hilted Azure;
Motto
HONESTAS • FORTITUDO • FIDES;
Symbolism
Arms
The gyronny pattern represents Mr. Malaison’s career as a corporate president, director and manager. It reflects his ability to organize, to bring people together and to act as an agent for change and renewal within any organization that employs him. The gyronny motif also recalls traditional depictions of King Arthur’s Round Table, and thus suggests the chivalric ideal of equality that the Round Table represents. The griffin is a mythological creature with the head of an eagle (the king of birds) with the body of a lion (the king of beasts). Symbolizing power, it represents Mr. Malaison’s courage, daring, intelligence and leadership. The griffin also appears on the arms of the O’Casey clan, thus representing his mother’s Irish ancestry. The griffin is in ermine to recall the vestments of the ancient nobility of France and, by extension, the homeland of Mr. Malaison’s paternal ancestors. The cross held by the griffin represents Mr. Malaison’s Christian faith.
Crest
The snow leopard represents Mr. Malaison’s strength of character. The sword suggests those used by the crusaders and, together with the Maltese cross on the crown, symbolizes his involvement in the Order of St. John. The maple leaves convey his connection to Canada.
Motto
This motto, meaning, “Honour, courage, loyalty,” represents for Mr. Malaison not only his many years with the Canadian Forces, but also his attachment to his country, the courage needed to act and to express an opinion, and the loyalty he shows to the people and businesses with which he works.