Our coat of arms

Our armorial bearings were granted in 1977, on the occasion of the college's 50th anniversary. A painting of the design was presented to Admiral Sir Ian Easton, the Commandant, by Sir Anthony Wagner, Garter King of Arms, in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Seaford House on Friday 11th November 1977.

The crest is a representation of the 'Beast' which has been our unofficial emblem since 1932 at least. The trident represents the Royal Navy, the lion the Army and the wings of the lion the Royal Air Force. The laurel wreath around the lion's neck symbolises the civilian component of the college and was added in 1977 after consultation with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. The lion is shown sitting on a wreath, or torse, in accordance with heraldic custom.

The basic feature of the shield is the Royal Crown which is a special privilege granted to the college. The book refers to the educational activities of the college and the green background is included to indicate the distinctive green onyx which decorates Seaford House and is a feature of the building.

The supporters were inspired by the Beast and are in accord with the historical use of lions or leopards in royal heraldry. They are rendered distinctive by the inclusion of the wolf from the arms of Lord Hankey and the lion from those of Sir Winston Churchill, both of whom were involved in the establishment of the college.

The motto can be translated as 'concord (or co-operation) strengthens the limbs' or, more usefully, 'strength through unity'.