Arms of Joseph Roméo Richard Choquette
Arms of Joseph Roméo Richard Choquette
Blazon
Azure on a fess between in chief two roses Or and in base an open book Argent bound Or, a bar gemel Azure;
Symbolism
The blue and yellow represent Mr. Choquette’s career within the Royal Canadian Air Force. These colours also allude to his French origins. The three yellow bands refer to his rank as major within the Canadian Forces, as well as to his three concurrent careers in education, with the Canadian Forces and with St. John Ambulance. The book symbolizes knowledge, sacred texts, the transmission of knowledge, the exchange of ideas and openness to the world. It also refers to his role as an educator, mentor and leader of youth and colleagues. The roses represent for Mr. Choquette generosity and selflessness. They also appear on the arms associated with the Choquet/Choquette families. Their number represents his love for his daughter and grandson.
Crest
Blazon
Issuant from a coronet Or jewelled proper set with Maltese crosses Argent, fleurs-de-lis Azure and maple leaves Gules a rock standing thereon an albatross rising proper charged on the chest with a cross potent Gules and holding in its dexter foot a sword Argent hilt and pommel Azure;
Symbolism
As a symbol of freedom and strength, the albatross represents for Mr. Choquette his boundless energy in pursuing three concurrent careers, while also symbolizing his membership in the Royal Canadian Air Force. It evokes Mr. Choquette’s spirit of determination, as well as his professional commitment to serve his fellow citizens. The sword symbolizes the loyalty, honour, courage and pride of a soldier fighting for peace and freedom. It also represents his ancestor, Nicolas Choquet dit Champagne, who fought with the Carignan-Salières Regiment in 1665. The cross potent, an emblem based on the badge of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and a symbol of compassion, evokes Mr. Choquette’s spiritual journey as an active Christian. The fleurs-de-lis on the crown represent Quebec; the maple leaves, Canada; and the Maltese cross, Mr. Choquette’s membership in the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem and the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta.
Motto
Blazon
RAYONNER POUR SERVIR;
Symbolism
Meaning “Shining to serve”, the motto underscores Mr. Choquette’s sense of duty and involvement in his community.
