Tucked away in the village of Carp, Ontario, lies a piece of Canadian history. The Diefenbunker, formally known as the Central Emergency Government Headquarters (CEGHQ), was built in response to the rising global tensions from the Cold War. It was constructed between 1959 and 1961 and was designed to house 535 government and military officials for a 30-day lockdown period if a nuclear attack on Canada was detected. This central facility was designed in conjunction with other designated fallout shelters throughout the country, to maintain government leadership during an emergency situation. Fortunately, the bunker was never used for its intended purpose, and continued to operate as a military base between 1962 and 1994.
Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Carp Crest
During its time as a military base, the Diefenbunker was known as Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Carp. The site was staffed 24 hours a day by approximately 100 military and civilian personnel who played important roles in military telecommunications. The impressive four-storey underground facility received its own distinctive symbol that was emblemized on the uniforms of personnel who were stationed at the site.
The CFS Carp Crest was designed by the Department of National Defence to represent the Diefenbunker’s “underground” nature and original role as the country’s central communication headquarters. The circular crest has various elements, including Cerberus, the three-headed dog with a snake-like tail and sharp teeth, at the centre. In Greek mythology, Cerberus is responsible for guarding the underground and is often depicted alongside Hades, the god of the underworld. Cerberus would only allow Hermes, the god of messages, to pass through to the underground.
Below Cerberus in the crest is the River Styx, which had to be crossed before meeting Cerberus. This body of water represents the Carp River, and is flowing below a hill that is used to depict the physical location of CFS Carp, which is tucked into a hillside. Surrounding these images are twelve maple leaves that lead to the top of the crest, which is affixed with the royal crown. At the bottom of the crest, a plaque has “CARP” written across it. Below this, a scroll wraps around the base with text that reads “Communicare et protegere.” Latin for “Communicate and protect,” this phrase exemplifies the core functions of the site.
The CFS Carp Crest serves as a reminder of the journey that the Diefenbunker has undergone. From its beginnings as a once-top secret project to now celebrating 30 years as a national historic site, the Diefenbunker has stood the test of time. As we reflect on its storied past, we recognize those who wore the CFS Carp Crest. Show your support of the individuals who contributed to the security and sovereignty of Canada by picking up your own memento of this historically significant crest in our Gift Shop.