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13th Scottish Light Dragoons facts for kids

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13th Scottish Light Dragoons
Active 1866–1936
Country  Canada
Branch Canadian Militia
Type Light Dragoons
Role Cavalry
Part of Non-Permanent Active Militia
Garrison/HQ Waterloo, Quebec
Motto(s) Latin: Virtute et Labore, lit.'Through courage and labour' (the Dundonald motto)
Colors Facing colour yellow
Engagements First World War

The 13th Scottish Light Dragoons was a special group of soldiers in Canada. They were a type of cavalry unit, which means they rode horses in battle. This group was part of the Canadian Militia, which is now called the Canadian Army. They served Canada for many years.

The Story of the Dragoons

How the Unit Started

The 13th Scottish Light Dragoons began a long time ago, on September 14, 1866. They were first known as the 52nd Bedford Battalion of Infantry. This unit was formed in a place called Knowlton, Quebec.

A few years later, in 1872, their name changed to the 52nd Brome Battalion. Over time, this group joined with another unit called the 79th Shefford Regiment. Together, they became the 79th Shefford and Brome Regiment (Highlanders). It's important to know they were not connected to another famous group, the 79th Cameron Highlanders of Canada.

Becoming the Scottish Light Dragoons

In 1901, the regiment joined forces again with the 52nd Regiment (Brome Light Infantry). They kept the 79th's name for a short while. Then, in 1904, they made a big change. They combined with parts of another cavalry unit, the 6th Duke of Connaught's Royal Canadian Hussars. After this, they were officially named the 13th Scottish Light Dragoons.

Serving in the First World War

The regiment played a part in the First World War. Many of their soldiers were hurt or lost their lives during this time. After the war, in 1921, the unit was reorganized to help it recover.

The End of the Regiment

Sadly, on February 1, 1936, the 13th Scottish Light Dragoons were officially ended. This happened as part of a larger plan to reorganize the Canadian Militia. Thirteen other regiments were also disbanded at the same time.

Unit Uniform and Look

The soldiers of the 13th Scottish Light Dragoons had a very specific uniform. They wore a blue cap with a special checkered pattern around the edge. Their main jacket was a bright scarlet (red) dragoon tunic, which had yellow parts called "facings." They also wore blue pants, called pantaloons, with a yellow stripe down the side.

Important People

Some notable members who served with the 13th Scottish Light Dragoons include:

  • Brigadier-General Charles Allan Smart CMG
  • Lieutenant-Colonel George Harold Baker

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