- 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 Base Ottawa-Gatineau
Ottawa, Ontario
Approval of a Badge
February 15, 2022
Vol. VIII, p. 76
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Badge
Per fess Argent and Azure a fess patté per fess Vert and Argent masoned Vert between two martlets counterchanged, the wings of each forming a maple leaf, all within the Bases and Stations Badge Frame;
Motto
SUPPORT CENTRAL;
Symbolism
Badge
Blue, green and white are the emblematic colours of both Ottawa and Gatineau, the cities served by the base. The martlet is a mythical bird that has no feet and never lands, symbolizing here the fact that the base is always in operation. As a songbird, it alludes to the communication services provided by the base. Two martlets are depicted to highlight the bilingual character of its personnel. The wings shaped like maple leaves, making them Canadian martlets, indicate that its services are offered to units across the country. The stone arch represents the Rideau Canal and its many bridges, and by extension, Ottawa. It also embodies the base’s role of bridging together various military units as it processes all their service requests. By its mechanism of support, the bridge refers to the motto. The curved green shape represents the Gatineau Valley and the city of that name. It also alludes to a canoe, recalling the region’s history as a portage and trading place, and embodying the base’s services in transport, equipment and personnel relocation.
Motto
This homonymous phrase in English and French presents the base as a hub where Canadian Forces units can find the support they need.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 19, 2022, in Volume 156, page 1209 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Fabienne Fusade, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Debra MacGarvie
Calligrapher
Doris Wionzek
Recipient Information
Military Institution
Military