The Viceregal Lion
  1. The Governor General of Canada
Heraldry Today

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Joseph Fernand Denis Gougeon

Gatineau, Quebec
Grant of Arms
March 20, 2015
Vol. VI, p. 495

Arms of Joseph Fernand Denis Gougeon

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Blazon

Arms

Azure a griffin segreant Or holding in its dexter claw a tree eradicated Argent;

Crest

A hummingbird volant drinking from blue flag and trillium flowers issuant from a nest of maple branches proper;

Motto

FRANC DEVANT DIEU;


Symbolism

Arms

The griffin is a proud and steadfast mythical animal. Being both an eagle and a lion, it represents Mr. Gougeon’s military service as an instructor and commander of air and army cadets, while the colour blue symbolizes his military service with sea cadets. The griffin’s eagle head also alludes to Lac de l’Aigle [Eagle Lake] in Quebec, where he owns a cottage and served as chair and founding member of the owners’ association. The tree represents a family tree, thus referring to his family and to his long-time interest in genealogy.

Crest

The hummingbird, quite common around Lac de l’Aigle, represents for Mr. Gougeon lightness, delicacy, and ecology. The nest again symbolizes his family and his interest in genealogy. The trilliums and maple branches suggest his Franco-Ontarian and Canadian roots, while the blue flag flowers represent Quebec, the province where he lives.

Motto

This phrase means “Forthright before God.”