Arms of Joseph Louis Gérard Lafontaine
Arms of Joseph Louis Gérard Lafontaine
Blazon
Argent two naval swords in saltire proper surmounted by a compass rose Azure, in chief three roosters Gules;
Symbolism
Blue, white and red are the colours of France and honour Mr. Lafontaine’s French ancestry, as well as his spouse’s country of birth. The swords represent his career as a naval officer and are symbols of courage, fearlessness and victory. The compass rose also represents his career as a sailor and symbolizes exploration, travel and discovery. The rooster is a symbol of courage and of loyalty, and is also an emblem of France. A barnyard animal, it also represents the work of Mr. Lafontaine’s farmer ancestors. There are three roosters, to represent Mr. Lafontaine’s children.
Crest of Joseph Louis Gérard Lafontaine
Blazon
A barred owl wings displayed proper, each charged with a fleur-de-lis Azure;
Symbolism
The owl is a bird which represents happiness, good fortune and wisdom. It is also an important local symbol both in the township of Potton, in Quebec, where Mr. Lafontaine resides, and in Dijon, France, which is his spouse’s home town. The fleur-de-lis is a symbol of cultural identity both of France and of Quebec, and its blue colour further represents these affiliations.
Motto of Joseph Louis Gérard Lafontaine
Blazon
IN VERECUNDIA HONOS NASCITUR;
Symbolism
This Latin phrase means “From respect springs honour.”
