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.
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Supporters and Badge
April 20, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 193
Arms of the National Security Centre of ExcellenceBlazonGules a chess knight Argent gorged with olive branches Vert, a chief enarched Or fretty Gules; SymbolismRed and white are the colours of Canada, which the Centre is sworn to protect from security risks, while gold symbolizes excellence. The curved chief alludes to an umbrella, showcasing how the centre’s activities protect the country. The interwoven red bands represent the technological measures implemented to protect from cyber-attacks. The knight chess piece, which can strike in unexpected ways on a chessboard, evokes the strategic dimension of the Centre’s advice to Canadian government departments and organizations. The olive branch symbolizes international law. |
CrestBlazonA pangolin Or couchant on a grassy mount proper; SymbolismThe pangolin is an animal that combines defensive and offensive attributes to protect itself from its adversaries, since it is covered with armour-like scales composed of small sharp blades. This represents the Centre’s dual mission of helping Canadian entities to mount suitable defences to external attacks, while also enabling them to proactively counter threats to national security. |
MottoBlazonHOCE TUTABIMUR; SymbolismThis Latin phrase, meaning “This we will protect,” embodies the Centre’s core mission to defend Canada from national security risks. |
SupportersBlazonDexter a unicorn Argent armed and crined Sable sinister a dapple grey Warlander horse, both standing on a rocky mount proper strewn with olive branches Vert; SymbolismThe unicorn has traditionally been described as a fierce creature that is difficult to catch, while its horn was thought to have protective powers, since it could detect and nullify the effects of poison. This alludes to the Centre’s resolve in defending Canadian interests and enabling Canadian organizations and entities to evade external threats. The Warlander is a horse recognized as one of the closest descendants of the medieval destriers used in warfare. The two supporters thus symbolize the duality of the Centre’s action: defensive (the unicorn) and offensive (the Warlander). The olive branches repeat the symbolism of the Arms. |
Badge of the National Security Centre of ExcellenceBlazonA torteau charged with a chess knight and environed by olive branches Argent; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationSince 2023, grants, registrations and approvals of heraldic emblems are no longer announced in the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Alix Chartrand, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterEva Pilar-Cass CalligrapherYolande Lessard Recipient TypeCivil Institution |