Arms of John Joseph Fitzpatrick Kennedy

Blazon

Argent on a chevron Gules between in chief two cross crosslets fitché Sable and in base an Irish harp embellished proper, an eagle displayed Or;

Symbolism

The red chevron and black cross crosslets fitché are elements found in Scots Kennedy arms to indicate Dr. Kennedy’s membership in this Scots Kennedy clan. The harp represents his Irish heritage. The eagle is the symbol of St. John the Evangelist, and refers to Dr. Kennedy’s first name and to his membership in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. It also alludes to the American eagle and thus to Dr. Kennedy’s birth and upbringing in New York and his service with the United States Army during the Vietnam War. As eagles are also native to Canada, it further symbolizes his Canadian home.