About Jason — Château Armscroix

Jason Charles Burgoin

MStJ, CD, KCJ, FRHSC, FSA Scot

Where it all started:

Born in “Steel City ” Hamilton, Ontario, Jason spent most of his childhood upbringing primarily in the Windsor and Essex County region of Ontario, where he gained a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and splendour of Canada. He is the beloved son of Danny Walter Burgoin and Kim Lorry Webster, and stepson to Wallace Frances Manning, who have all played a vital role in shaping his character and worldview. As a young man, he pursued higher education and enrolled in Huron University College, which is situated at the prestigious University of Western Ontario in London, Canada. During his time at university, he focused on the study of Globalization and Government, which has helped him gain a deeper understanding of the world around him and the various challenges that our society is facing in today’s world.

An Unparalleled Professional Journey:

Jason begins with the Canadian Armed Forces in 2001 and was commissioned as an Officer in the Canadian Army. Presently, he holds the rank of Captain and has amassed a wealth of rewarding and challenging experiences throughout his tenure as a reserve officer. Captain Burgoin journey commenced with the Cadet Instructors Cadet (CIC) with the Cadet Organization Administration and Training Service in Windsor, Ontario. From there he underwent training and development in a variety of roles at CFB Trenton, CFB Borden, CFB Valcartier, and ASU London, where he commanded No. 9 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, and further culminated in his appointment as a full-time staff officer at CFB Borden.

In 2013, Captain Burgoin was appointed as the J4 Regional Transportation Officer at the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Central) Headquarters, where he was responsible for the logistics planning and transportation coordination for all cadets and staff within Central Region. This role involved meticulous planning by his team to ensure the efficient and safe movement of personnel across this country.

Building on this experience, Captain Burgoin was appointed as the J5 Cadet Training Centre Plans Officer in 2017. In this capacity, he was entrusted with overseeing the comprehensive planning, infrastructure development, staffing, and operational readiness required to welcome over 12,000 of Canada’s youth to six training centers annually across Ontario. His leadership and strategic vision helped to ensured that each training center providing a high-quality training experience for Canada youth.

After serving at CFB Borden for eight years, Captain Burgoin transitioned in 2021 to the Niagara and Greater Toronto Area Office of the Canadian Cadet Organization, headquartered at Denison Armoury in Toronto. As the J3 Zone Training Officer for the Niagara area, he was responsible for overseeing the training and operational capabilities of Corps and Squadrons across the Halton, Peel, and Niagara peninsulas, while also providing advice, support, and coaching to unit leadership. During his tenure at Denison Armoury, a restructuring of staff resources led to his appointment as Acting Officer Commanding of the Niagara and Greater Toronto Area, a role he held for seven months before being posted back to CFB Borden.

In December 2023, he returned to CFB Borden to assume the position of J8 Financial Services Officer for the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Central). This significant transition marked a notable milestone in his military career, reaffirming his dedication and leadership within the armed forces.

A Call to Arms of a slightly different sort:

Dedication to the ancient art of heraldry has positioned Jason as a distinguished figure within this venerable field. A passionate Herald of Arms by inclination, he has been deeply involved with the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada, for nearly two decades, contributing significantly to its advancement. Jason has held various leadership roles, including National President from 2023 to 2024 and President of the Toronto Branch from 2018 to 2023. His efforts at both the National and Branch levels have been instrumental in elevating the Society’s global stature. As chair of several committees during his involvement, Jason has led key initiatives, fostering growth, innovation, and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting heraldic traditions.

In 2019, the Society recognized his dedicated contributions by bestowing upon him the highly regarded Meritorious Service Award. This prestigious accolade stands as a testament to his vision and leadership in the establishment of the Canadian Heraldic Studies Symposium, an annual event that commenced in 2008. Since the inception of this event, he has held the pivotal role of chairing the Symposium, ensuring its continued success. Furthermore, he has been actively engaged in the Toronto Branch of the Society, service as Branch President from 2018 until taking on the role as National Presidents of the Society in 2023. His passion for Heraldry has been showcased through his longstanding editorial prowess as the editor of Hogtown Heraldry. Serving as the flagship magazine-style quarterly publication of the Toronto Branch of the Society, it is committed to advancing the understanding and appreciation of heraldic studies and providing valuable insights to readers.

Jason's insatiable thirst for heraldic research extends far beyond the confines of Canada. His profound fascination lies in European heraldry, with a particular emphasis on France and Great Britain. Delving deep into this captivating subject matter, he has ventured into the realm of sigillography and developed a passion for collecting heraldic bookplates. This fervor epitomizes his exceptional intellectual curiosity, as he explores the elegance and erudition inherent in this timeless art form. Driven by his boundless enthusiasm, Jason finds immense joy in sharing his extensive research and knowledge. He does so through engaging lectures, striving to advance the study and appreciation of heraldry not only within Canada but also across the globe. By imparting his expertise, he aims to foster a deeper understanding and admiration for this rich heritage, transcending geographical boundaries and uniting heraldic enthusiasts worldwide.

Throughout his tenure as Vice President, one of his primary focal points was the strategic planning and implementation of a hybrid technological framework to streamline operations and offer meaningful programs. Recognizing the global reach of the organization's membership, it became imperative to establish value-driven outreach initiatives that catered to members across the globe.

In 2022, Jason's exemplary merit, profound expertise, and substantial contributions to the realm of Heraldry earned him the esteemed distinction of being elected a Fellow of the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada. This remarkable honour is bestowed upon individuals who have displayed unparalleled erudition in heraldic scholarship, artistry, armorial studies, chivalry, and other related subjects pertinent to the field of Heraldry in Canada. Through their remarkable achievements, these distinguished individuals have left an indelible mark, making significant and lasting contributions to their respective fields.

Volunteerism and Philanthropic Endeavors:

Jason is a dedicated individual who invests a significant portion of his time in supporting various not-for-profit organizations and community groups to help them achieve their crucial missions. One such organization that holds a special place in his heart is St. John Ambulance, where he has held multiple leadership positions at the community, regional, and national levels. Currently, he serves as the Honours & Awards Chair for the Halton-Hamilton Regional Branch and is a member of the Council for Ontario's Ceremonial and Protocol Committee. From 2022 to 2024, he served on the Priory of Canada Chancellors Communication team. In recognition of his commitment and contributions, he was appointed to the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem at the grade of Member in 2020.

His charitable endeavors extends beyond his work with St. John Ambulance to include active involvement in The Equestrian, Secular & Chapterial Order of Saint Joachim. His commitment to this organization has garnered recognition on multiple occasions. In 2017, Jason was honored with the Grand Master's medal, followed by The Cross of Merit in 2019. His contributions were further acknowledged with his appointment to the office of the Commander for the Canadian Sub-Commandry of Gore-Niagara in 2020, accompanied by a promotion to the rank of Knight Commander. Subsequently, in 2024, he was appointed to Grand Chapter and assumed the role of Grand Herald, entrusted with maintaining the roll of arms, registering personal arms and providing heraldic consolation to in their pursuit to obtain Armorial Bearings or utilizing of heraldic achievements within the Order.

Fraternal Roots:

Known to some as Worshipful Brother, Jason is an esteemed member of the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons in the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Canada, Province of Ontario. He has served as a Past Worshipful Master of Dufferin Lodge No. 291, a 150-year-old historic county lodge located on the outskirts of Hamilton in West Flamborough. The lodge has a rich history, and Jason has been instrumental in maintaining its traditions and fostering a sense of community among its members. In addition to his time at Dufferin Lodge, Jason is a member of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Canada in Hamilton Valley. He is deeply invested in the study of masonic research, history, and the intricacies of ritual mechanics from bygone eras. His passion for the craft is evident in his commitment to the study of Masonic principles and his desire to share this knowledge with others.

Leisure Pursuits and Recreational Engagements:

Beyond his professional endeavors, he maintains a diverse range of interests. Notably, he is an enthusiastic recreational SCUBA diver and the past president of the Aquateers of Canada, CFB Borden Scuba Club. With a passion for wreck diving, he has explored many historical wrecks in southwestern and central Ontario and has led numerous diving experiences for friends and colleagues.

His involvement with a military dive club inspired him to contribute more to the dive community. This led him to establish an organization, which delivers specialized program that promotes diver activities, education, and qualification. The program provides CAF members, First Responders, and Veterans dealing with PTSD the opportunity to receive diver training at various levels and explore the mesmerizing depths of the waters in a comfortable and supportive environment. Led by divers who have experienced PTSD and professionals who understand its effects, the program ensures that participants are guided by those who genuinely comprehend their challenges. He has championed this program for several years and is very passionate about both the initiative and the people involved in it.

Understanding the therapeutic benefits of diving, he recognized the importance of creating a program that addresses the unique needs of individuals with PTSD. The program not only offers technical diving skills but also provides a sense of peace and tranquility that can be profoundly healing. By offering a supportive community and a structured environment, he ensures that participants can safely experience the calming and restorative effects of the underwater world, helping them manage mental health, stress and anxiety associated with PTSD.

Additionally, Jason has a deep appreciation for European and Commonwealth orders and decorations, showing a keen interest in the intricate history and significance of these honours. His passion extends to the study of graphology, the analysis of handwriting, which he pursues as a self-proclaimed Stylophile—a lover of style and aesthetics. This unique blend of interests reflects Jason's fascination with the detailed artistry and historical narratives behind these symbols of recognition and the personal expression found in handwriting.

Back to where it all started:

Jason currently resides in Brampton, Ontario, a vibrant city nestled within the Greater Toronto Area. Known as "The Flower Town of Canada" for its lush parks, Brampton boasts a rich multicultural community and a plethora of cricket fields and recreational activities. This dynamic city offers him the perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban tranquility, making it an ideal place to call home. He shares his life with his common-law partner, Jesse Gregory Baillargeon, and together they make an incredible team. Their shared love for adventure and exploring the world while embarking on new adventures is what keeps them going. Whether it's wandering through the vibrant streets of unfamiliar city or immersing themselves in the tranquillity of far-off destinations, they relish the chance to create meaningful memories and immerse themes in the vibrant tapestry of people and culture they encounter.

Honours &
Awards

Provencal/Territorial Commendation, Order of St. John - 2024

Chancellors Commendation, Order of St. John of Jerusalem - 2023

Long Service Medal, Order of St. John of Jerusalem - 2023

Member, Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem - 2020

Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers - 2018

Grant of Armorial Bearings - 2016

Canadian Forces Decoration - 2014 / clasp for 22 years service - 2024

Vice Chief of Defence Staff Commendation - 2012

Governor-General of Canada Commendation for Bravery - 2004

Honorary Fellow, (2024) The Heraldic Institute

Ufficiale, (2023) The Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus, House of Savoy, Italy

Fellow, (2022) The Royal Heraldry Society of Canada

Appointed a Kentucky Colonel, (2022) Governor Andrew Graham Beshear, 63rd Governor of Kentucky

Freedom of the City of London, (2021) Guild Hall, City of London, United Kingdom

Meritorious Service Award, (2019) Royal Heraldry Society of Canada

Fellow, (2017) The Royal Society of Antiquaries of Scotland

Letters patent, appointing Jason a
Freeman of the City London

Community &
Leadership Roles

Ancient Free & Accepted Mason of Canada
Past Master - Dufferin Lodge No. 291 A.F&.A.M., West Flamborough
Hamilton Chapter of Rose Croix, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry

The Equestrian, Secular & Chapterial Order of Saint Joachim
Grand Herald
Commander - Canadian Sub-Commandery of Gore-Niagara

St. John Ambulance
Halton -Hamilton Regional Branch - Honours & Awards Chair
Council for Ontario, Ceremony & Protocol - Committee Member
Chancellor's Communication Team (2022-2024)