Naval Traditions and Culture

Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the "crossing the line" (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.

Dawn Gun Stations in HMCS Pictou

Harold Beament's painting depicts the crew of HMCS Pictou's 4-inch gun and the griffon from their ship's crest painted on the gun shield.

During the Second World War, Canadian warships adopted a variety of unofficial crests, as well as artworks prominently placed on their gun shields. While some were based on the ship's name, or featured characters based on popular cultural references, others had less obvious origins. In Pictou's case, the griffon was a reference to the ship's commanding officer, Anthony Griffin.

Dawn Gun Stations in HMCS Pictou
Painted by Harold Beament
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-1007