Prince Edward Island Highlanders facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Prince Edward Island Highlanders |
|
|---|---|
| Active | 1875–1946 |
| Country | Canada |
| Branch |
|
| Type | Line infantry |
| Role | Infantry |
| Size | One battalion |
| Part of |
|
| Garrison/HQ | Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island |
| Motto(s) | Latin: semper fidelis, lit. 'always faithful' |
| Colors | Facing colour blue |
| March | Quick – Highland Laddie |
| Engagements | |
| Battle honours | See #Battle honours |
| Insignia | |
| Tartan | Government |
The Prince Edward Island Highlanders was a special group of soldiers, known as an infantry regiment, that was part of the Canadian Army. These soldiers were trained to fight on foot. In 1946, this regiment joined with another group called The Prince Edward Island Light Horse. Together, they formed a new unit known as The Prince Edward Island Regiment (RCAC).
Contents
History of the Highlanders
How the Regiment Started
The Prince Edward Island Highlanders started a long time ago in 1875. It was first known as the Queen's County Provisional Battalion of Infantry. Over the years, its name changed several times.
- In 1876, it became the Queen's County Battalion of Infantry.
- In 1879, it was called the 82nd Queen's County Battalion of Infantry.
- In 1906, it changed to the 82nd Abegweit Light Infantry.
- In 1920, it was named The Prince Edward Island Regiment.
- Finally, in 1927, it got its well-known name, The Prince Edward Island Highlanders.
The word Abegweit comes from the Mi'kmaq language. It means 'cradled on the waves'. This name was a special way to describe Prince Edward Island.
Serving in the South African War
During the Second Boer War, which happened around 1900, soldiers from the 82nd Queen's County Regiment volunteered to join Canadian forces. They went to fight in this war.
The First World War
When the First World War began in 1914, some soldiers from the 82nd Abegweit Light Infantry were called to duty. Their job was to protect local areas.
Later, in 1915, a new group was formed called the 105th Battalion (Prince Edward Island Highlanders), CEF. This battalion traveled to Great Britain in 1916. From there, they sent soldiers to help the Canadian Corps on the battlefields. The 105th Battalion was later combined with another group and officially ended in 1917.
The Second World War
When the Second World War started in 1939, parts of the regiment were again called to serve. They helped with local protection duties.
In 1941, the 1st Battalion of The Prince Edward Island Highlanders was fully prepared for war. They served in Newfoundland from 1941 to 1943. From 1943 to 1945, this battalion was part of the 15th Canadian Infantry Brigade Group. They were also part of the 6th Canadian Infantry Division. Their role was to defend the west coast of Canada.
In 1945, the need for home defense lessened. The battalion then traveled to the United Kingdom. Once there, it was disbanded. Its soldiers were sent as reinforcements to help the First Canadian Army in Europe. A reserve battalion stayed on Prince Edward Island.
After the Wars
On April 1, 1946, The Prince Edward Island Highlanders joined forces with the Prince Edward Island Light Horse. They formed a new unit called the 17th (Prince Edward Island) Reconnaissance Regiment. This unit was later renamed The Prince Edward Island Regiment (RCAC) in 1949.
How the Regiment Was Organized
The Prince Edward Island Regiment (1921)
When it was known as The Prince Edward Island Regiment in 1921, it had two main parts:
- 1st Battalion (which carried on the history of the 105th Battalion, CEF)
- 2nd (Reserve) Battalion
The Prince Edward Island Highlanders (1927)
When it became The Prince Edward Island Highlanders in 1927, it had a main office and several companies:
- Regimental Headquarters (in Charlottetown, PEI)
- A Company (in Charlottetown, PEI)
- B Company (in New Wiltshire, PEI)
- C Company (in Summerside, PEI)
- D Company (in Montaque, PEI)
Special Connections
The Prince Edward Island Highlanders had a special connection, or alliance, with a famous British regiment. This was The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment). This alliance lasted until 1946.
Uniforms of the Highlanders
The Prince Edward Island Highlanders wore uniforms very similar to those of the Black Watch. However, their badges were different. Officers wore grey Balmorals, which are a type of hat, with their service and battle uniforms.
Battle Honours
Battle honours are special awards given to military units for their bravery and success in battles. The Prince Edward Island Highlanders earned several of these honours.
South African War
Great War
Famous Members
One notable person who was part of this regiment was Daniel J. MacDonald.
See also
