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.

Ship's Badge, HMCS Inch Arran

This badge for the frigate HMCS Inch Arran is an example of a formally designed and approved post-war ship's badge.

Following the Second World War, the Royal Canadian Navy created official ship's badges, often called crests. Drawing on more formal heraldic symbols, these badges replaced widely used but unofficial wartime versions. In the case of Inch Arran, named after Inch Arran Point in Dalhousie, New Brunswick, the badge includes references to the history of the Isle of Arran in Scotland, after which the point was named, and to the province's flag.

Crest
CWM 19810080-002