Royal Rifles of Canada facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Royal Rifles of Canada |
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| Active | 28 February 1862 – 1 November 1966 |
| Country | Canada |
| Branch | Canadian Militia (1862–1940) Canadian Army (1940–1966) |
| Type | Rifle regiment |
| Role | Infantry |
| Size | One regiment |
| Part of | Non-Permanent Active Militia (1871–1940) Royal Canadian Infantry Corps (1942–1966) |
| Garrison/HQ | Quebec City |
| Motto(s) | Latin: Volens et valens, lit. 'Willing and capable' |
| March | Quick march "I'm Ninety Five", double past "Money Musk" |
| Anniversaries | Battle of Hong Kong |
| Engagements | South African War First World War Second World War |
| Battle honours | See #Battle Honours |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders |
Brigadier John K. Lawson |
The Royal Rifles of Canada was a special type of infantry unit, known as a rifle regiment, in the Canadian Army. This brave regiment fought alongside The Winnipeg Grenadiers in the Battle of Hong Kong during World War II. After many years of service, the regiment was officially closed down in November 1966.
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The Royal Rifles' Story
The Royal Rifles of Canada started in Quebec City, Canada, on February 28, 1862. It was first called "The 8th Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles, Canada." Over the years, its name changed several times. For example, it became the "8th Battalion 'Royal Rifles'" in 1877. Finally, in 1920, it was named "The Royal Rifles of Canada."
In 1965, the regiment joined with another unit called Les Voltigeurs de Québec. However, this partnership ended in 1966, and The Royal Rifles of Canada was officially closed.
Today, another Canadian Army unit, The Sherbrooke Hussars, honors the Royal Rifles. They display the Royal Rifles' badge and the year 1941 on their special flag, called a guidon. This is because a part of their old unit helped form the Royal Rifles before they went overseas.
Battles and Service
The Royal Rifles of Canada and its earlier versions took part in several important events and wars.
Early Days: The Fenian Raids
In 1866, the 8th Volunteer Militia Rifles were called to action because of the Fenian raids. These were attacks by Irish-American groups on Canadian borders. The battalion helped protect Quebec City during this time.
Serving in the South African War
Later, the regiment sent volunteers to fight in the South African War (1899-1902). These soldiers joined other Canadian groups in the conflict.
The First World War
When the First World War began in 1914, members of the regiment helped with local protection duties.
Two special battalions were formed for overseas service:
- The 12th Battalion, CEF was created in 1914 and went to Great Britain. It later became a training unit, sending new soldiers to other Canadian forces.
- The 171st Battalion (Quebec Rifles), CEF was formed in 1916 and also went to Great Britain. Its soldiers were later sent to another unit to help reinforce the Canadian forces fighting in Europe.
The Second World War
The Royal Rifles of Canada played a very important role in the Second World War.
In 1939, some members of the regiment were called up for local protection duties in Canada. Then, in 1940, the main part of the regiment, called The Royal Rifles of Canada, CASF (Canadian Active Service Force), was sent to serve overseas.
They first served in Newfoundland from late 1940 to August 1941. Then, on October 27, 1941, they sailed to Hong Kong as part of a group called "C Force." They bravely fought to defend the colony during the Battle of Hong Kong. Sadly, the unit suffered heavy losses in this battle.
After the battle, the unit was rebuilt in 1942. It then served in Canada, helping to defend the Pacific coast. In 1945, the regiment went to Great Britain. It was then disbanded to provide more soldiers for the Canadian Army fighting in Europe.
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This poster encouraged people to join the Royal Rifles of Canada during World War II.
Battle Honours
Battle honours are special awards given to military units for their bravery and success in battles. The Royal Rifles of Canada earned several of these honors. The ones shown in bold type were proudly displayed on the regiment's uniforms and flags.
- South Africa, 1899–1900
- Ypres, 1915, '17
- Festubert, 1915
- Mount Sorrel
- Somme, 1916
- Arras, 1917
- Hill 70
- Amiens
- Hong Kong
- South-East Asia, 1941
Famous Members
Some individuals from The Royal Rifles of Canada became well-known for their service:
- Major-General Sir David Watson: A high-ranking officer.
- Chaplain Frederick George Scott: A chaplain who served with the regiment.
- Gander: A brave Newfoundland (dog) who was the regiment's mascot. He famously carried away a hand grenade to save wounded soldiers and was later awarded the Dickin Medal for animal bravery.
More to Explore
- Hong Kong Veterans of Canada Association
Books
- Hong Kong Veterans' Association of Canada. Quebec-Maritimes Branch "The Royal Rifles of Canada in Hong Kong, 1941-1945" (Canada: The Association, ©1980)
