Language selection

Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Search

Heritage Structure | Section 9 – The CHA development process for military emblems (Badges, flags and others)

Table of contents
  • Section 9 – The CHA development process for military emblems (Badges, flags and others) (6-9-1)
  1. General. In accordance with its MOU with CAF, CHA designs and produces painted documents for all new and modified CAF badges, command camp flags, Colours and other emblems. The process takes an average of 12 to 14 months. The various steps involved are described below.
  2. Opening of the file. On receipt of a request from DHH to create a new military emblem (which includes an official letter, the CFOO, badge frame, suggested motto, contact person details, unit’s profile and a reference number), the Chief Herald of Canada sends an acknowledgement letter and assigns the file to a herald.
  3. Research and Concept proposal.
    1. the herald assigned discusses design themes to be included in the emblem (badge, flag or other) with the point of contact (POC) of the unit and creates a written proposal;
    2. the Chief Herald of Canada approves the new emblem concept;
    3. a written description of the proposed concept, including its meaning, is sent to DHH for questions on heritage and to the unit for approval; and
    4. the Canadian Heraldic Authority verifies the motto with a language scholar.
  4. Preliminary Art.
    1. an accredited artist of the CHA creates the preliminary rendering of the proposed emblem; and
    2. the preliminary art is approved by the Chief Herald of Canada, sent to DHH for information and to the unit for concurrence.
  5. Final Art, Calligraphy and Official Document.
    1. the artist paints the new emblem in gouache;
    2. a calligrapher inscribes the identifying text and motto (if required);
    3. the painted document is signed by the Chief Herald of Canada, the CAF Inspector of Colours and Badges and the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada;
    4. the blazon and symbolism document is prepared by CHA, based on the input provided by the unit and DHH; the Registrar of the CHA signs and seals the document and assigns a page and date in the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada.
  6. Sending and Notification.
    1. The painted document is digitized;
    2. the official documents are sent to DHH for distribution; and
    3. within 12 months, the notice of the approval is published in the Canada Gazette, and the Badge or Flag is added to the online version of the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada.

Page details

Date modified: