- 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.
Canadian Forces Service Badge
Ottawa, Ontario
Approval of a Badge
September 15, 2014
Vol. VI, p. 446
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Badge
On a roundel a wreath of maple leaves overall a fouled anchor surmounted by two crusader’s swords in saltire and an eagle volant affronty head to the sinister, all ensigned by the Royal Crown and resting on scroll inscribed SERVICE;
Symbolism
Badge
The design is based on the badge of the Canadian Armed Forces. The anchor, the swords and the eagle represent the sea, land and air environments of the Forces. The word “SERVICE” and the colours, platinum (from 42 years on), gold (32 to 41 years), silver (22 to 31 years) and bronze (from completion of training to 21 years), indicate honourable service as a member of the Forces. The maple leaves represent service to Canada, and the Crown, to the Sovereign.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 14, 2015, in Volume 149, page 505 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of the Department of National Defence, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
David Farrar
Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione
Recipient Information
Military Institution
Military
In 2025, the symbolism was changed from the original 2014 version to reflect the current qualifications for the various levels of the Badge.