The above Coat of Arms was awarded to the RAYER family at some point, between the 11th. and 14th. Century AD. The Surname appears to be occupational in origin. Onomastic research associates the name with the French meaning,
" One who was a Barber ".

The RAYER coat of arms is officially documented in:
"Rietstap Armorial General".

When translated the Blazon also describes the colours of the RAYER arms as:

" Green; a gold chevron placed lower than usual, accompanied by Two silver female Greyhounds facing each other, placed along the length of the chevron; surmounted by a silver Eagle, holding under it's talons a red heart, accompanied by Two silver Stars".

(Unfortunately, scanning a parchment does not give exact colour reproduction).

It is FACT that MY Family, has given Very Loyal and Distinguished Service, as Soldiers and Sailors of the Crown for several Centuries. Plus in more recent times, as members of the Royal Air Force also.

The 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Gloucestershire Regiment, was by tradition, the "Family Regiment". (North Glos. Regiment raised in 1694 AD). My Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and several other Family members before them, served in the "Glorious Glosters".

My Father was later Commissioned into the Wiltshire Regiment.
My younger Brother joined the Royal Armoured Corps,
and I served in the Royal Air Force.

This Family tradition of Loyal service to the Crown has
been continued, with the next generation serving in the
Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.


The RAYER Family has ALWAYS
done it's Duty when called.