Meaford, Ontario, Friday, May 20, 2016

It’s a pleasure to be here in beautiful Meaford to present these new heraldic emblems.

One of my responsibilities as governor general is to serve as head of the Canadian Heraldic Authority, which has as its motto the Latin Honorentur Patriam Honorantes, meaning “Let those who honour their country be honoured.”

In Canada, grants of armorial bearings recognize the contributions made by the recipient to the community.

In this case, though, we honour not one recipient’s contributions to the community, but the community itself!

The very ideals that you stand for are now on display for everyone to see.

The imagery, as always, is evocative and conveys the deeper meaning of this place and how it fits into this province and our country.

In this case, there are allusions to the natural world, to Georgian Bay and boating, and to local flora.

But perhaps the most meaningful component is your motto:

OUR HERITAGE OUR FUTURE.

This is such a wonderful sentiment because it’s so true!

To look ahead, we must never forget where we came from.

In the case of Meaford, history reminds us of a superb example of coming together, in the same spirit with which this country was forged.

The Town of Meaford, the Township of Sydenham and the Township of St. Vincent came together—their people came together—to pool resources and to create a stronger community.

It’s a history that you haven’t forgotten.

In fact, you celebrate that history, which is what this coat of arms does so well.

I was born in Copper Cliff, just outside of Sudbury on the other side of Georgian Bay, so I know how close-knit places like this are.

This is a special part of Canada, and I’m glad to be here to see it.

I’m also proud that we can present you with these armorial bearings, which will become a meaningful symbol for Meaford, as well as for all of the residents of this municipality, past, present and future.

Congratulations to all of you on this occasion.

Thank you.