The Redesign of a Military Symbol

 
I can't say enough about how proud I am to have been part of this project. All through my life I have been reminded of what the men and woman, that serve in our military, have done for us. Keeping Canada safe and allowing us to enjoy the freedoms we do by placing their lives on the line is something not all of us can do or are willing to do. They deserve many thanks!  

This year I was asked by Captain Keith Laursen (G1 Ops O) to help re-design the cap-badge and collar-dogs for the 3ASG Gagetown Pipes and Drums, located at CFGB Gagetown, just outside of Fredericton, New Brunswick. This was an important opportunity for me, not only because of how I feel about the people that would be wearing them and what these symbols would mean to them, but because my Father is a member of the band(no pressure). 

Cpt. Laursen and I met in person to discuss the project. He presented me with samples of the their current cap-badge, reference materials and several historic cap-badges that he wanted me to study. Cpt. Laursen had a very specific look and feel that the band wanted the new cap-badge to have. They wanted something that could be worn with pride but also something they and those that saw it could connect to as being a part of the Canadian Armed Forces. 

There are 3 parts to the design:
- traditional Canadian Moose
- Canadian Maple Leaf
- Ribbon with the text Diligence raised off of it 

As a special touch Capt. Laursen asked me if it was possible to have an inscription placed on the back, "Lieutenant-Colonel Alex Miller, MMM, CD". 

The moose needed to look more real then the current moose, the maple leaf had to look natural and the ribbon must have an historic cap-badge feel. The final piece would need to be created in 2 parts so that the leaf and ribbon could be given a different finish then the moose. 

Taking all of the reference materials I laid out the design and started to work on 2D line art that would be used to create the 3D bass-relief model. After a few minor changes the Captain gave his OK for me to start the 3D model. 

Keeping in mind that parts of the cap-badge model would be used to create the collar-dogs was important. The detail needed to stand up going from 2" to .75. Once I was happy with the model I created a rendering and sent it to that Captain for him to proof. With a few modifications it was approved. Now we just needed to get it manufactured. 

We choose to have it manufactured by Aitkens Pewter. They are a local pewter gift-ware company that creates custom work that is sent all over the world. Their quality is tops, so I knew working with them would be a perfect match and in the end, 3ASG was not let down! 

It was decided that the maple leaf and ribbon would be cast in pewter and plated with an antique bronze. The moose would have a satin pewter finish to allow it to visually stand of the maple leaf. The combination proved to be just what the Captain was thinking. 

With the Captains OK I also had a 1' square wooden version made. I choose to use a company located in Nova Scotia, Cottage Woodworkers, owned by Stephen Mosher. He was happy to help and the finished piece I received was more impressive then I expected. This was to be a gift for my Father and I knew he would be very happy to display it. The plaque was made using 2 different woods - Cherry and Walnut. 

Thank you again to all of those serving in the Canadian Armed Forces!