Arms of John Robert Walsh
Arms of John Robert Walsh
Blazon
Per fess Argent and Azure a fusil per fess Gules and Argent;
Symbolism
Blue and white are the colours of Nova Scotia, Mr. Walsh’s home province, while red and white are the colours of Canada. The diamond shape refers to the needle of a compass, a device used in orienteering, in which Mr. Walsh has been active for many years. It also conveys the idea of finding the right path, thus alluding to Mr. Walsh’s career as a teacher and his work with young people. The red part of the needle points north and thus refers to the many years Mr. Walsh spent as a teacher in Nunavut, which is also represented by the white background.
Crest of John Robert Walsh
Blazon
A beluga hauriant embowed Argent holding a West African paddle Azure;
Symbolism
The beluga is found in Arctic waters, and thus refers to Mr. Walsh’s career in Nunavut, where he witnessed whale hunts and where he once held a whale by the tail. When a whale is caught by Inuit hunters it is apportioned to all parts of the community: the whale thus represents the importance of sharing responsibilities and benefits within a community, values that Mr. Walsh has practised and taught throughout his life. The paddle represents Mr. Walsh’s time in Nigeria, and is another metaphor for guiding people in the right way.
Motto of John Robert Walsh
Blazon
FAITH AND ACTION;
Symbolism
This phrase is based on the statement “We are men of faith and men of action” used by the Knights of Columbus, of which Mr. Walsh is a member.
