On February 15, Canadians commemorate National Flag of Canada Day, marking the adoption of the Maple Leaf as our national flag in 1965. More than a national emblem, the flag stands as an enduring symbol of unity, shared values, and the identity of a nation shaped by service, sacrifice, and pride.
The origins of Canada’s flag are closely tied to the Royal Military College of Canada, whose history and traditions played a formative role in the creation of the Maple Leaf. In March 1964, while overlooking the College grounds from the Mackenzie Building, Colonel and the Honourable George F.G. Stanley, then Dean of Arts at RMC, shared a pivotal idea with Colonel and the Honourable John R. Matheson, Member of Parliament for Leeds. Stanley proposed that the design of Canada’s national flag be inspired by the Royal Military College flag an emblem already recognized for its strength, clarity, and symbolic balance.
At the centre of Stanley’s concept was a single red maple leaf, replacing the College’s badge of an iron‑gauntleted hand holding three green maple leaves. Framed by bold red bands, the design emphasized simplicity, unity, and instant recognition. Parliament approved the proposal, and by royal proclamation on February 15, 1965, the Maple Leaf officially became the flag of Canada now one of the most recognizable national symbols in the world.
The Royal Military College maintains a direct and proud connection to this national milestone. RMC cadets were honoured to participate in the first official raising of the Maple Leaf on Parliament Hill, a defining moment in Canadian history and a lasting point of pride for the RMC community.
Today, the official flag of the Royal Military College continues to fly, its broad red bands framing the RMC badge. Although its precise origins remain uncertain, the flag has been in use since the end of the First World War and has long represented a unified national identity grounded in courage, loyalty, and service. It is raised for significant occasions such as graduations and alumni reunions and has flown atop the College clock tower and the mast at Fort Frederick since 1960.
From its historic roots at the Royal Military College to its place of honour across the country and around the world, the Maple Leaf remains a powerful reminder of who we are as Canadians. On National Flag of Canada Day, we reflect on the vision that shaped our flag, the institutions that influenced its creation, and the shared spirit it continues to represent.
View the timeline on Canada’s National Flag – https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/flag-canada-history/timeline-national-flag.html
One flag. One nation. One enduring Canadian identity.