Newly commissioned Second Lieutenant Tristan A. Strathy embodies a living bridge between the storied past and the modern future of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada (QOR). For the Strathy family, military service and regimental custodianship are not merely historical footnotes—they are a multigenerational calling.
As a newly commissioned officer, Tristan continues a profound family lineage that has shaped, led, and preserved Canada’s oldest continuously serving infantry regiment for well over a century.
A Legacy on the Homefront and the Museum Board of Governors
Tristan A. Strathy
Before donning the uniform as an officer, Tristan established himself as a dedicated steward of the regiment’s history. Since May 2021, he has served as a Governor of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Regimental Museum and Archive at Casa Loma, actively working to modernize and preserve primary sources of Canadian military history. Through initiatives like discovering and facilitating the digitization of 19th-century QOR order books, Strathy has proven that his dedication to the regiment is as much about safeguarding its legacy as it is about operational duty.
His leadership within the regimental family also extends to administrative stewardship, serving as the Secretary of and an Executive Committee member for The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Trust Fund.
The Strathy Family Tree: Generations of Riflemen
Tristan’s appointment as an officer follows a direct line of ancestral service that traces back through major global conflicts and foundational periods of the Canadian Armed Forces:
Honorary Major Gerard Brakenridge Strathy (QOR 1895–1901)
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Colonel James Gowan Kirkpatrick Strathy
(QOR 1925–1970)
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Lieutenant-Colonel John Gerard Brackenridge Strathy (QOR 1952–1972)
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[Strathy Family Institutional Continuity]
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Second Lieutenant Tristan A. Strathy
(Present)
Honorary Major Gerard Brakenridge Strathy
The Great-Great-Grandfather (The Turn of the Century):
The family’s formal bond with the regiment solidified with Honorary Major Gerard Brakenridge Strathy, who was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the QOR, serving from 1895 to 1901 and later in the First World War.
He married Mabel Theodora Kirkpatrick, the sister of Colonel A.J.E. Kirkpatrick, who commanded the QOR in the 1920s.
Colonel J.G.K. Strathy, OBE, OStJ, CD, ED – Colonel of the Regiment
The Great-Grandfather (The World War II Era):
Colonel James (Jim) Gowan Kirkpatrick Strathy, OBE, ED, CD, KStJ, joined the QOR as a Lieutenant in 1925, eventually becoming the Regimental Adjutant in 1929. He served overseas in World War II and was ultimately appointed Colonel of the Regiment from 1960 to 1970.
Lieutenant-Colonel John Gerard Brackenridge Strathy, CD, followed directly in those footsteps. Joining the QOR as an Officer Cadet in 1952, he rose through the ranks to become the Commanding Officer of the Regiment from 1969 to 1972.
In civilian life, he founded Strathy Investments Limited in 1979—a firm where Tristan now serves as a director.
2nd Lt Tristan Strathy swearing in on the 1840 family bible used by all his military ancestors.
Continuing the Tradition
In civilian life, Tristan maintains a prominent profile in Toronto’s financial and philanthropic sectors, serving on the Toronto Council of Canada Company—a charitable foundation serving as an enduring bridge between the Canadian Armed Forces and the public.
He’s also a Steward of the Strathy Family Scholarships awarded to students at Trinity College, University of Toronto.
However, it is his return to the parade square as Second Lieutenant Strathy that brings the family story full circle.
Carrying forward the traditions of leadership, duty, and public service that his family pioneered through the 19th, 20th, and now 21st centuries, his commission ensures that the Strathy name remains permanently woven into the fabric of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada.
Petition calls for Canada to officially commemorate soldiers killed in Fenian raids
A new petition set to be presented in the House of Commons is seeking to have those nine men and the dozens who died in the wake of the battle added to the list.
“It really just boils down to Canada recognizing those who died defending it,” said Niagara South MP Fred Davies, who is sponsoring the petition in Parliament.
The Battle of Ridgeway was fought on June 2, 1866, in what is now Fort Erie, Ontario, by Canadian militiamen defending the territory and people of what would become Canada;
Nine Canadian militiamen were killed during the Battle of Ridgeway, and additional Canadians later died from wounds or disease contracted during the 1866 Fenian Raids campaign;
Those who died during the campaign were among the first combat dead of what would become the Canadian Army;
The service and sacrifice of those Canadians are not presently commemorated in Canada’s Books of Remembrance in the Memorial Chamber on Parliament Hill;
Canada’s Books of Remembrance already commemorate individuals who died defending territories that became part of Canada before Confederation or before their entry into Confederation; and
Permanent recognition in Canada’s Books of Remembrance would ensure that the Canadians who gave their lives during the 1866 Fenian Raids campaign are appropriately honoured as part of Canada’s military history.
We, the undersigned, Citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to formally recognize the nine Canadian militiamen killed at the Battle of Ridgeway, together with the additional Canadians who died from wounds or disease contracted during the 1866 Fenian Raids campaign, by including their names in Canada’s Books of Remembrance, as befits their sacrifice defending our nascent country.
The preservation and professional conservation of the rifle-green uniform tunic worn by Ensign Malcolm McEachren represents a vital effort by The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Regimental Museum and Archives to safeguard an artifact of national historical significance. Commissioned just two months prior, McEachren was shot through the upper abdomen during the opening minutes of the Battle of Ridgeway on June 2, 1866, making him the first battlefield casualty of the regiment and what is considered the first combat death of the modern Canadian Army.
About Malcolm McEachren
Before marching off to face the Fenian raiders, Ensign Malcolm McEachren lived a modest, community-focused life in Toronto as a working-class family man and civic volunteer. Records preserved by The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Museum paint a vivid picture of his daily life in the city up until June 1866.
Profession and Income
McEachren supported his family by working as a dry goods store manager in downtown Toronto.
Salary: He earned an annual salary of $900, which was a respectable middle-class income for the mid-19th century.
Housing: His employment package included a common perk of the era: free rent for his family in a residential apartment situated directly above the store premises.
Family Life
At home, McEachren was the primary provider for a large, young family. He was married to Margaret Caroline McEachren, who was 31 years old at the time of his deployment. Together, the couple had five children under the age of 13:
Two sons, aged 8 and 12.
Three daughters, aged 2, 4, and 6.
Knowing the inherent risks of joining an active militia regiment, McEachren was organized enough to purchase a $250 life insurance policy to protect his family. While a small amount (equivalent to roughly $6,600 in modern value), it reflected his forward-thinking nature, given his limited financial means.
Faith and Community Service
Originally raised in the Presbyterian faith, McEachren underwent a personal religious transition shortly before his death. He converted and joined the Wesleyan Methodist Church, where he quickly immersed himself in the congregation by serving as a dedicated Sunday school teacher.
Military Enlistment
Motivated by a strong desire to serve his local community during a period of cross-border political tension, McEachren joined the local volunteer militia. He was officially gazetted as an Ensign on March 30, 1866, joining No. 5 Company of the Queen’s Own Rifles. Tragically, he would wear his new officer uniform for just over two months before he was killed. Following his death at Ridgeway, McEachren’s body was returned to Toronto, where he was laid to rest. Today, his final resting place is marked by a rededicated headstone in the historical Toronto Necropolis cemetery in the city’s Cabbagetown neighbourhood.
The Preservation Strategy: “Project McEachren”
Because the tunic is the most historically significant artifact in the regimental museum’s collection at Casa Loma, the museum initiated a multi-phase preservation plan to halt decades of degradation caused by light, pests, and previous amateur alterations.
Phase 1: Environmental Stabilization (2018) – The museum first addressed atmospheric deterioration by purchasing a custom, museum-quality display case featuring frameless UV-filtering glass, an airtight compartment, and a desiccant tray to permanently lock in safe humidity levels.
Phase 2: Upgrading the Mount – The tunic was carefully transferred from its old wooden mannequin to a museum-grade synthetic mount. This step was critical because historical wood off-gasses harmful chemicals that rapidly break down organic textiles within a sealed environment.
Phase 3: Expert Textile Conservation (2026) – The final stage involved hands-on restoration. In early 2026, the tunic was hand-delivered to CRC Conservation/Restoration, an accredited specialty firm near Quebec City, to undergo a meticulous four-month stabilization process ahead of the 160th anniversary of the battle.
Conservation Challenges Addressed
The textile conservators faced several unique challenges due to the uniform’s active history and 160 years of exposure:
Reversing Former Interventions: A prior handler had stitched white thread around the historic entry wound and written “Bullet Hole” directly onto the fabric with a white china marker. Conservators worked to safely mitigate these non-original markings without disturbing the surrounding wool fibres.
Structural Losses: The treatment stabilized Areas of the tunic that had suffered from severe ultraviolet (UV) fading, textile loss from insect damage, and missing sections of the delicate black braiding and buttons.
Lining Restoration: The team assessed the uniform’s interior liner—which was previously determined to be an inaccurate, unoriginal addition—to ensure a structurally supportive and historically appropriate interior foundation.
The completed project ensures that this tangible piece of Canada’s military birth—complete with its visible battle damage—remains preserved for future generations.
Funding the Conservation Effort
The significant expense of employing specialized, accredited textile conservators means that protecting this irreplaceable piece of Canadian history requires substantial community support. Because the delicate structural stabilization, removal of non-original markings, and precision historical restoration required such highly specialized expertise, the overall cost of the project has been significant. To date, funding has been provided through the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Trust Fund, a registered Canadian charity.
However, the financial needs of the project are not yet completely met. The Trust still requires approximately $6,000 to fully fund the remaining costs of this vital preservation work and push the project over the finish line.
How You Can Help
The museum relies on the generosity of the Regimental family, history enthusiasts and the public to bridge this final funding gap. Contributions of any size directly help safeguard Ensign McEachren’s tunic for future generations.
Where to Donate: Supporters can make a secure contribution directly through the official QOR Museum Donate Page.
Tax Receipts: Online donations are processed securely through CanadaHelps, and all contributions are eligible for immediate Canadian charitable tax receipts.
Giving Options: The platform allows you to make a one-time payment, set up a monthly donation, or even make a tribute donation in memory of a loved one.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the generous donors who have already stepped forward to support this vital preservation effort; your contributions have been instrumental in successfully stabilizing this priceless artifact of Canadian military heritage and ensuring it remains preserved for future generations!
As Regimental Archivist, I’ve been entering names of QOR soldiers into our Collection Management System (called PastPerfect), which currently contains just over 9,000 names.
I’m currently working on entering names and basic information from our First World War Virtual Memorial page. This memorial page, containing 2239 casualties, was made possible through the work done by the former Regimental Padre, Captain Craig Cameron, CD. Additional work on those who joined perpetuated battalions was done by former Regimental SergeantMajor, CWO Shaun Kelly, CD, and museum volunteer Alex Meyer. Our thanks toOperation Picture Mefor many of the photos used in individual profiles.
To date, we’ve probably entered about 60% of those WWI casualties into our CMS. We’ve included information gathered from the Canadian Virtual War Memorial, Ancestry.ca, Library and Archives Canada’s online service records, and War Graves Register (Circumstances of Death) cards, also available online.
Today is the 109th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. This battle was the first time that pretty much all Canadians serving in Europe fought together in the First Canadian Corps. While Vimy Ridge was taken by the Canadians after several failed attempts by other allies, it was not a particularly significant contribution to the overall war. However, it is widely regarded as a defining moment in the development of Canadian national identity, often described as the “birth of a nation”.
So far, we have identified 32 soldiers who died on 9 April 1917 in our First World War Memorial, and I’m sure there are more as we continue to enter names and information. These 31 names are in the table below. We encourage you to click the links on the names for more information.
Not included here are (so far) another 11 names of those who died on the 10th and 11th of April, including some who died of wounds received on the 9th.
Not all these soldiers were serving in the 3rd Battalion; however the entry in their war diary for 9 April makes for an interesting read.
On Thursday, February 12th, The Queen’s Own Rifles museum held another successful event to recognize and thank our dedicated team of volunteers. A dozen and a half volunteers, museum board members, and representatives once again gathered in the beautiful Royal Canadian Military Institute’s library for drinks, munchies and socialization.
Our volunteers include former and serving members of the Regiment, current and former members of the Master’s in Museum Studies program at the University of Toronto, and others with an interest in history and the military. They catalogue objects, process and describe archival materials, scan archival records for our website, redesign and update exhibits, clean existing exhibits, accession new donations, update our database and our website, respond to research requests, track expenditures to our allocated budget, and liaise with other military museums in the Greater Toronto area, to name just a few tasks!
For the more formal part of the evening, we gathered near the fireplace where each attendee introduced themselves and their role at the museum. We were especially pleased to have our wounded Curator join us with multiple pins in his ankle, and on his first outing in almost two months that didn’t involve a hospital visit!
On behalf of the Command Team, Deputy Commanding Officer Sam Leibel and Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Mike Hyde expressed the Regiment’s gratitude for our volunteers’ efforts to both physically and virtually preserve and share the QOR’s long and detailed history.
They also provided an overview of the impacts of the current Canadian army modernization on the QOR. While this has significant organizational impacts at higher levels, it is clear that this will not impact the museum in any direct way. Neither will there be any significant impact operationally on the QOR, except for the sharing of the Command Team with the Ontario Regiment starting at the end of March 2026.
Museum Director and Archivist Major John Stephens CD, (Ret’d)
The Museum’s Board of Governors members, Adam Hermant, Lisa Holmes, Jenna Misener and Tony Schultz, sent their regrets for the evening; however, Board Chair Michele McCarthy expressed the Board’s appreciation for the 1600+ hours of work our volunteers have given in 2025.
Museum Director John Stephens announced that we have just purchased our first interactive exhibit, which involves dressing a 1916 soldier in his uniform and equipment. We hope to receive and install the exhibit in mid-March.
New interactive exhibit.
With the help of the Regimental representatives, we finished the formal part of the evening with a draw for eight $50 gift certificates graciously provided by Liberty Entertainment Group for various restaurants they operate in Toronto.
If you would like to help financially support the work of our Regimental Museum, we appreciate your donation through our CanadaHelps portal.
Ensign Malcolm McEachern, first QOR soldier to fall at the Battle of Ridgeway, June 2, 1866
On an unknown date, a daughter of Ensign Malcolm McEachren donated the tunic he was wearing at the time of his death during the June 2nd, 1866 Battle of Ridgeway to the Fort Erie Historical Society. On the 100th anniversary of the battle in 1966, the tunic was presented to the Regiment and was subsequently placed in the care of the Regimental Museum.
Nine QOR soldiers died that day, but post-battle reports are clear that McEachren, who had only been commissioned as an officer two months previously, was the first to fall in that action. He was also the first casualty in the history of the Regiment, which had only been formed in April of 1860.
It would not be an understatement to say this is the most significant object in our museum’s collection and likely unique in any regimental museum’s collection. For that reason, we take the serious responsibility of preserving this tunic to the best of our abilities.
Unfortunately, over the past decades, it has suffered UV and insect damage and the loss of some of the braiding and buttons. Someone in the past wrote “Bullet Hole” in white china marker above the hole and stitched around its edges with white thread. We’re also not clear whether the current but not original liner is appropriate. Some damage, such as the fading from UV light exposure or insect damage, cannot be reversed, nor would we want to. What we can do is ensure that it is preserved in such a way as to minimize any future deterioration.
With that in mind, we have developed a three-step plan:
The first step was to acquire a new exhibit case that would protect it as much as possible. In 2018, we purchased a custom-made museum-quality case with frameless UV filtering glass, Abloy security locks, and an airtight exhibit compartment with a desiccant tray to ensure a constant humidity level. This was possible with donations from a number of supporters, a bequest from the estate of the late Captain Scott Patterson, and from The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada Trust Fund.
Step 2 involved replacing the wooden mount (or mannequin) with a museum-quality mount. Wood off-gases, and this would be more of an issue in a sealed case. The tunic was transferred to a new mount before COVID shut down our volunteer operations for a significant time.
Now that the tunic was well protected from future deterioration, the final step was some professional conservation and preservation work. We contacted an accredited textile conservator whose company, “CRC Conservation/Restoration,” is near Quebec City. After receiving a preliminary treatment proposal, the Museum Board of Governors approved this project, and we have engaged this conservator.
This past week, our Museum Director personally delivered the tunic to the Conservator in Quebec City, despite a snowstorm creating some driving challenges between Cornwall and Quebec City! We anticipate that the rather painstaking work will be completed over the next four months and the tunic will be back on display in time for the June 2nd 160th anniversary of McEachren’s death.
While we are very excited to complete this final step in protecting and preserving this very significant object, it does come with an equally significant cost. We are thankful for the support of the QOR Trust Fund and from several donors to date. If you would like to support this project you can do so online via CanadaHelps (select “In Honour of” McEachren Project).
The 3rd Battalion, as part of the 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade, held the left brigade boundary abutting the 6th Brigade of the Second Division. A Company’s lines were particularly close to the Kaiser’s lines. “No man’s land” was very narrow, active and muddy. Sniping was prevalent and dangerous, all along the front.
The Canadian battalions were rotated in and out of the front lines every few days, typically cycling into the same trenches for a variety of reasons. One of the reasons was that the trenches were in poor shape, so the expectation was that the troops would work diligently on the trenches they would be returning to in a few days. Regular work parties were tasked daily to shore up defences in their area of operation, often under the supervision of engineers.
The weather was cold and wet, comparable to the misery of Salisbury Plains one year ago. In the Divisional War Diary on the 24th, it was noted that “Rain very heavy all night.” Trenches were water-filled, and there were not enough rubber waders to go around.
The Division also reported that the 3rd had 29 officers and 914 other ranks on strength in location as of 24 December 1915.
Despite the Division War Diary reporting the front was “quiet” on 25 December 1915, two 3rd Battalion men were sniped that day – Lance Corporal Nash and Private Keown. They were also mentioned in the 3rd Battalion war diary as having been “shot through the head.”
On the 28th, three more men were killed from shelling: Privates Bateup and Roberts of A Company, and Private Edey of the battalion grenadiers. They were all buried by their comrades at Wulverghem Cemetery, along with Nash and Keown.
Burial locations of 3rd Battalion soldiers killed in December 1915.
In December 1915, a total of 295 soldiers were killed while in the service of the Canadian Corps, 19 of whom were from the 3rd Battalion.
Tomorrow, as we do every year on November 11th, at 1100 hours, most of us will stop to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars. Many will attend ceremonies at cenotaphs in every village, town and city across the country. Canadian networks will broadcast live from the “national” service of remembrance in Ottawa, after which people will lay their poppies on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
But who exactly are we remembering?
Lieutenant John William Stephens, RCAMC
Many of us have family members whose names we keep in our thoughts. My paternal grandfather, Lieutenant John William Stephens, died of wounds in Sicily in July 1943 while serving with the 5th Canadian Field Ambulance of the Royal Canadian Medical Corps. When he died, my father, the oldest of four children, was only 10 years old. Like many families, my father and I made a pilgrimage to his father’s grave in the mid-1990s. After a dull, rainy day, we arrived at the Agira Canadian War Cemetery (photo above) as the sun broke through the clouds, revealing a beautiful rainbow across Mt. Etna in the background.
Sergeant Richard Charles Wood, 4 CMR.
Because the family home is located at the eastern end of Northumberland County, we recognized many family names on neighbouring grave markers – soldiers of the Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment who had battled through Sicily at significant cost.
My half-great uncle, Sergeant Richard Charles Wood, aged 21, was killed in action in June 1916 while serving with the 4th Canadian Mounted Rifles, and his name is recorded on the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium. Apparently, he had originally joined up underage, and his mother had written to the King to bring this to the army’s attention. After being discharged, he reenlisted after his next birthday.
Someone once said (or wrote) that as long as we speak their names, they continue to live. Our Virtual War Memorial honours the names of all those who served in The Queen’s Own Rifles in the Second World War, and the six First World War battalions that we perpetuate. I invite you to speak some of the names on these lists, many of which have links to profile pages. While most of those named were killed in action or died of wounds, others died of illness, battle injuries or accidents. Two very unlucky 3rd Battalion CEF soldiers died while on leave in London when the restaurant in which they were dining was struck by a bomb from a German Zeppelin.
We also remember those who died in Korea, Cyprus and in various training exercises since the Second World War.
Decoration of Queen’s Own Rifles graves by the QOR IODE women in May 1924
How else did we remember?
In 1890, in Ontario, June 2nd was officially recognized as Decoration Day. The graves of those who died and fought during the Fenian Raids were decorated with flowers by wives and mothers, as was the Volunteer Memorial just west of Queen’s Park. The Queen’s Own had thirteen casualties of the Battle of Ridgeway on our memorial.
Later, this day also included men who died in the Northwest Campaign and in the South African War (3 QOR). In 1919, the Commonwealth began to commemorate Armistice Day on November 11th. In 1921, it was officially recognized in Canada, and in 1931, the name was officially changed to Remembrance Day.
Who should we not forget?
While remembering the fallen, we should also remember those who came home scarred both physically and mentally. Lives shortened by gas. Amputees. Shell-shock and PTSD. Influenza. Those using alcohol, like my maternal grandfather, trying to forget the horrors of WWI. Indigenous soldiers who answered their country’s call but still unable to vote when they returned. And of course, those who found a way to move on with their lives, raise families, and drink a quiet toast each year to fallen comrades.
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
By Major Adam Saunders, CD (Ret’d) for the Maple Leaf magazine of the Central Ontario Branch of the Western Front Association.
One Colonel Hagarty, two Lieutenants D.G. Hagarty, and the 201st CEF Battalion
It seems straightforward and practical that CEF non-commissioned officers (NCOs) were assigned service numbers upon attestation to avoid confusion among the 650,000 soldiers in uniform during the First World War. Officers, however, were generally not assigned service numbers, which did not entirely prevent confusion. There were exceptions to this rule, such as when an officer attested as an NCO and was later commissioned.
There are 690 individuals named “John Smith” in the Archives Canada Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) attestation database, and 7,002 instances of the surname “Smith,” with most having their own service numbers. When researching a soldier of the Great War, obtaining a service number can save significant time and reduce confusion, especially if you’re searching for a friend’s great-uncle named Private “Smith.
One might be intrigued to learn that two individuals named “Lt. D. L. Hagarty” served in the CEF at the same time. Both were from Toronto, both stood 5′ 11 ½” (taller than the average height of 5′ 9″ in the CEF), and both served with The Queen’s Own Rifles at one point. One of the Lt. D.G. Hagartys was 36 years old upon attestation in 1914, while the other was only 21 years old when he attested in 1915. It is not difficult to imagine how their service files could have crossed paths, leading to confusion.
Dudley George Hagarty
Lieutenant Dudley George Hagarty
Dudley George Hagarty attested as a lieutenant with the 3rd Battalion CEF at Valcartier on 22 September 1914. A member of The Queen’s Own Rifles, he was 36 years old and had spent nine years with the regiment. He had attended both Toronto’s Upper Canada College and Trinity College School in Port Hope, and may have been a member of their respective cadet corps. In civilian life, he sold real estate and insurance and lived with his mother at 41 Foxbar Road, Toronto. After completing his training in Salisbury, England, with the 3rd Battalion, he joined the 1st Division in France in February 1915, and witnessed the 2nd Battle of Ypres in late April 1915, serving with B Company (Coy) under Captain Muntz, who was killed early on in the battle.
Daniel Galer Hagarty
Lieutenant Daniel Galer Hagarty
Daniel Galer Hagarty, 21 years old, attested with the 2nd University Training Company in Montreal on 26 June 1915, despite being an engineering student at the University of Toronto. He had spent two years with The Queen’s Own Rifles, following in the footsteps of his father, Lieutenant Colonel Edward William Hagarty. Daniel lived with his parents at 662 Euclid Avenue, Toronto, and had attended Harbord Collegiate, where he also competed with cadets from around the world at the Bisley Shooting Competition.
An interesting and somewhat confusing detail in Daniel’s file is a “medical card” listing him as having been in No. 3 General Hospital in Le Treport, France, between 30 May and 7 June 1915. However, Daniel had only attested on 28 June 1915, meaning it was Dudley who was in the hospital at that time, despite the correction on the card. The correction was incorrect.
Both Hagartys were in England between July 1915 and January 1916. Daniel was with the 11th Reserve Battalion, awaiting assignment to a battalion overseas, while Dudley was with the 23rd Reserve Battalion, awaiting his next medical board. This period marked the first and predictable mix-ups involving pay.
Mix-ups and Consequences
Lieutenant Dudley George Hagarty
A notable mix-up in Dudley Hagarty’s file occurs on a “promotion and appointment” form (R150), where he was to be sent to the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) on 29 January 1916. This entry was later crossed out with a note saying, “Refers to D.G. Hagarty PPCLI.” However, at that time, Dudley had already been deemed unfit for general service due to illness. This suggests that pages from the service files of the two Hagartys were actively mixed up, rather than being simple filing errors.
Dudley spent the rest of the war undergoing regular medical evaluations due to his condition (neurasthenia). He was eventually transferred to the Canadian Army Pay Corps in England, where he was promoted to captain in April 1917. Dudley returned to Canada in July 1918, deemed “surplus to requirements,” and was assigned to Militia District No. 2 in Toronto until his release in September 1919.
In Daniel’s file, several pay ledger sheets from Dudley’s file can be found, including one indicating that he was to return to Canada at his own expense aboard the SS Olympic on 5 September 1916 and had been granted leave between 8 November and 8 December 1916. The problem, of course, was that Daniel had been killed in action six months earlier. Furthermore, Daniel’s service card indicated he had been promoted to captain on 9 January 1917, despite having died six months prior.
Daniel’s Last Moments
Lieutenant Daniel Galer Hagarty
On 2 June 1916, two days after returning from leave, Daniel was killed while leading No. 7 Platoon in No. 2 Company of the PPCLI. His platoon was positioned in the front line of the left sector at Sanctuary Wood, which was subjected to an intense bombardment by high-explosive shells and trench mortars, followed by an assault on the shelled position. Despite suffering heavy casualties, No. 2 Coy held their position (PPCLI War Diary, 2 June 1916). Daniel’s remains were recovered, so he was eventually buried at the Hooge Crater Cemetery.
On Dudley’s regimental card, it is noted that he passed through the 3rd, 9th, 17th, and 11th Bns. It was Daniel who was in the 11th while he was training in England, in anticipation of being assigned to the Patricia’s in France and Belgium. Between the two D. G. Hagartys, I am uncertain who passed through the 9th or 17th. Dudley did spend time in the 23rd Reserve Battalion while being shuffled to various commands. Along the way, he may have encountered the 9th and/or the 17th Reserve Bns, both located at Bramshott, en route to his position with the Canadian Army Pay Corps.
There were many more mixed-up pages from Dudley’s file in Daniel’s than vice versa.
The Legacy of Edward William Hagarty and the 201st
To some degree, this is now where the story begins.
The 201st CEF Battalion, otherwise known as the “Toronto Light Infantry Battalion,” was to be raised in Toronto. Lieutenant Colonel Edward William Hagarty was offered the provisional rank of lieutenant colonel to raise and command the battalion.
Competition to fill new battalions being formed for overseas service was intense, as casualties in France and Belgium were significant. Many of the Toronto-area units being raised were closely affiliated with militia units that had recruiters in place since 1914. Battalion commanders worked tirelessly to recruit a full battalion, aiming to send them overseas as a complete unit rather than dismantling them to provide reinforcements to other battalions. Many Canadian commanding officers faced disappointment as their units were often broken up, and they were relegated to staff duties in England, or worse.
LCol Hagarty enlisted in the still-to-be-formed 201st Battalion on 9 February 1916, at the age of 48. He resided at 662 Euclid Avenue with his wife, Charlotte, and son Daniel Galer Hagarty, who had left his studies eight months earlier to join the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) in France. LCol Hagarty was born on 7 September 1862.
Edward Hagarty was the principal of Harbord Collegiate from 1906 to 1928. His previous military experience was limited—he had served four years with The Queen’s Own Rifles (QOR) and one year as a lieutenant with the 25th (Militia) Elgin Regiment. Most of his 25 years of military experience had been spent instructing cadets in communities and high schools, and he was actively involved in various cadet organizations, including Rifle Associations. In early 1913, he was a cadet battalion commander for the Toronto Collegiate Institutes. In January 1914, he was awarded the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Corps of School Cadet Instructors (CSCI). On 19 January 1916, he received a certificate confirming his provisional appointment as an honorary lieutenant colonel for the purpose of commanding a CEF battalion. He was also issued a “Certificate of Military Qualification” dated 3 June 1916 from Ottawa, endorsed by Lieutenant Colonel R. Labatt of Military District 2. This qualification appeared just as General Order 69 of 15 July 1916 was issued, authorizing the raising of several new battalions, including the 170th, 201st, and 204th.
Part of LCol Hagarty’s plan was to have his son, Lt. Daniel Galer Hagarty, brought back from service overseas to become his adjutant. At this time, Daniel was completing training in England as a platoon commander with the PPCLI. Bureaucratic procedures were set in motion, and a tasking message was sent through various layers of command, according to various sources, including a newspaper article.
However, LCol Hagarty was devastated to learn that his son had been killed in action. He believed the military bureaucracy had mistakenly sent the order for his son to return to Canada and serve as his adjutant to the wrong person—Lt. Dudley George Hagarty, his son’s namesake. LCol Hagarty felt that had the message been sent to his son, Daniel, he would have “escaped death.” The loss of his son, combined with the inability to recruit sufficient soldiers from the cadet programs he had nurtured for years, led to the 201st Battalion being broken up while still in Canada. The soldiers were reassigned to the 170th Mississauga Horse (10th Royal Grenadiers) Battalion and the 198th Canadian Buffs (QOR) Battalion. It did not help that LCol Hagarty had declared his battalion the “temperance battalion,” which may have hindered recruiting efforts somewhat.
While I have not yet found a nominal roll for the 201st Battalion, the allocated block of service numbers (228001–231000) presented themselves. Unfortunately, the 201st did not attract enough recruits, especially when compared to other Toronto-area battalions. LCol Hagarty’s resignation was likely the final blow to any future the battalion might have had. It is not hard to imagine the sense of personal disappointment LCol Hagarty must have felt. Resigning under such circumstances would have been a very public statement of his frustration.
LCol Edward William Hagarty resigned from command of the 201st Battalion on 4 September 1916, just three months after the death of his son. Even if he had managed to take the 201st Battalion to England, his military experience at the senior officer level was nonexistent. On LCol Hagarty’s “Last Pay Certificate,” it was clearly noted that his “provisional appointment was cancelled.”
In late July 1919, LCol Hagarty and his wife Charlotte visited the battlefield in Belgium where their son fell. They found his grave at the Hooge Crater Cemetery before returning to Canada aboard the SS Savoie.
Legacy
Edward and Charlotte left a lasting legacy in Toronto with the establishment of the imposing Memorial at Harbord Collegiate Institute, which was dedicated in 1921 to “These former pupils who died for humanity in the Great War of 1914-1919.” Sadly, 20 years later, 52 more names would be added to the memorial.
Another lasting tribute is from the University of Toronto website as “the Reginald & Galer Hagarty Scholarship established by LCol E.W. Hagarty and Charlotte Ellen Hagarty in memory of their sons, Reginald and Galer. The scholarship is awarded to students entering their first year of any undergraduate program at the University of Toronto, based on academic achievement. The recipient must be a graduate of Harbord Collegiate.”
Edward passed away on 2 March 1943 and is buried in the family plot at St. James Cemetery in Toronto, alongside his wife Charlotte, who passed away two months later. Both of their sons are commemorated on the memorial at Harbord Collegiate.
Above: Upper Canada College Cadets, 1899 – QOR Museum Collection.
Did you know this is National Cadet Week in Canada? Over the years, The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada has had a number of affiliated army cadet corps – more than you might expect!
The following was researched and written by: Capt. (N) (Ret’d) Michael Braham for the http://www.6thjuin1944.com(no longer active) in the article Operation Overlord/Neptune Force ‘J’ – Juno Beach
This will break down which Queen’s Own Rifles Rifleman landed at what time. You can see how much crossloading of equipment and men there was with other Regiments and support formations:
HMS Monowai Assaulting companies – J30, Ex Armed Merchant Cruiser Razmak. A large and fast cargo liner built in 1925. She was 10,852 tons, 519 feet long and could make 20 knots. She carried ten LCA from 554 Flotilla, nine LCA from 556 Flotilla and a LCA(OC).(1)
Serials 1428 to 1432 are 5 LCA’s from LSI(L) J30 HMS Monowai:
129 men from The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada plus 20 stores spaces
3 men from 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA – Forward Observation Officer
6 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE plus 3 stores spaces – Demolition Team Serials 1433 to 1437 are 5 LCA’s from LSI(L) J30 HMS Monowai:
129 men from The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada plus 20 stores spaces
3 men from 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA – Forward Observation Officer
6 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE plus 3 stores spaces = Demolition Team(1)
Terrain The coastline on which Nan White and Nan Red were situated was low-lying. From Courseulles to Bernieres-sur-Mer, there was a sandy beach with short groynes to prevent lateral movement of sand by the current. From Bernieres-sur-Mer to St Aubin-sur-Mer the coast continued to be low lying and sandy, but here there were many summer houses and villas. From St Aubin-sur-Mer eastwards, there were low cliffs for a mile and a half, with a sea wall along most of it. Offshore, all the way along the coast eastwards of Bernieres-sur-Mer, there were rocky outcrops, parts of which were exposed at low tide. Inland, the country was gently rolling countryside and plains with large fields.(1)
QOR The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada received the order to make the final run in to the beach at 0805 hours, although there was no sign of the LCTs carrying DD tanks and specialist armour. They landed on Nan White at 0815 hours with ‘A’ Company to the west of Bernieres and ‘B’ in front of the Bernieres strongpoint. ‘A’ Company got off the beach quickly and reached the railway line before being pinned down by mortar fire. They eventually moved inland.
‘B’ Company landed in front of the strongpoint, which had 8 machine guns in concrete emplacements, two 50mm guns on the sea wall and two 80mm mortar posts inland. The company suffered heavy casualties, including three officers, a CSM and two sergeants. The company scaled the sea wall and outflanked the position.
‘C’ and ‘D’ Companies together with Battalion Headquarters, came ashore at 0830 hours. The companies passed through the village and, together with ‘A’ Company, prepared to move forward to the next task. ‘B’ Company remained on the beach to reorganize.(1),
Nan White and Nan Red H+20 minutes Queens Own Rifles of Canada – Lt-Col J.G. Spragge Nan White ‘A’ Company (Major H. E. Dalton) ‘B’ Company (Major C. O. Dalton) ‘C’ Company (Major Nickson) ‘D’ Company (Major Gordon)(1)
Serials 1451 to 1456 are 6 LCA’s from J32 HMS Duke of Wellington:
134 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada plus 23 stores spaces – Includes alternative Battalion Headquarters
1 man from Headquarters 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade – Chaplain for Queens Own Rifles of Canada – H/Capt JC Clough, C.C.S.
3 men and a handcart from ‘K’, Section (8 CIB), 3rd Canadian Infantry Division Signals plus 3 stores spaces • 7 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE
7 men from 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
9 men from 22nd Canadian Field Ambulance, RCAMC
4 men from La Regiment de la Chaudiere – Unit Landing Officer party
1 man from North Nova Scotia Regiment (9 CIB)
11 men from 184 Field Company, RE
2 men from 19 Beach Signals Section(1)
Serials 1457 to 1462 are 6 LCA’s from J33 SS Isle of Guernsey:
137 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada plus 18 stores spaces
2 men from 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse) – Liaison Officer
7 men from 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
6 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE plus 3 stores spaces
10 men from 22nd Canadian Field Ambulance, RCAMC
7 men from 184 Field Company, RE
2 men from 19 Beach Signals Section
2 men from 244 Provost Company
7 men from 5 Royal Berkshire Regiment – Beach Group
3 men from RN Beach Signals Section
2 men from RN Beach Commando – Assistant Beach Master party(1)
Serial 1463 was an LCH carrying Headquarters Queens Own Rifles of Canada. Personnel are taken ashore by LCA Serial 1482 from J36 HMCS Prince David:
8 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada – Battalion Command Group
3 men from Contact Detachment • 4 men from 14th Field Regiment, RCA
4 men from Detachment ‘A’ Troop, 3 Bombardment Unit J
1 man from ‘K’ Section (8 CIB), 3rd Canadian Infantry Division Signals
7 men and 3 handcarts from 19 Beach Signals
12 men from RN Beach Commando
10 men from RN Beach Signals.(1)
SS St. Helier Supporting companies – J35, A Channel Island ferry. She was 1,952 tons, 292 foot long and could manage 18 knots. She carried six LCA from 515 Flotilla. She had accommodation for 180 troops and was armed with six 20mm.
Serials 1470 to 1475 are 6 LCAs from J35 SS St. Helier:
135 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada – Includes Unit Landing Officer plus 21 stores spaces
1 man from 3rd Canadian Reconnaissance Regiment (The Governor Generals Horse Guards)
7 men from 19th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
13 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE plus 3 stores spaces
10 men from 22nd Canadian Field Ambulance, RCAMC
2 men from 19 Beach Signals Section
14 men from 5 Royal Berkshire Regiment – Beach Group(1)
Serial 1463 was LCH 239:
8 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada – Battalion Command Group
3 men from Contact Detachment
4 men from 19th Field Regiment, RCA
4 men from Detachment ‘A’ Troop, 3 Bombardment Unit J.
1 man from ‘K’ Section (8 CIB), 3rd Canadian Division Signals
7 men and 3 handcarts from 19 Beach Signals.
12 men from RN Beach Commando
11 men from RN Beach Signals(1)
The first troops landed on Nan White at 0850 hours. The lack of exits and the enemy resistance at Bernieres meant that the battalion had to wait on the beach for an hour, under mortar and shell fire. They moved to an assembly area inland and waited a further two hours before setting off for its objectives around Beny sur Mer. They were supported by ‘A’ Squadron 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse)(1)
Nan White and Nan Red H + 60 Minutes Nan White A flight of LCT4 beach with ‘A’ Squadron, 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse) plus priority vehicles for 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade:(1)
Serial 1511 is an LCT4 541 carrying: SEE APPENDIX D ‘A’ Squadron, 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse)
1 x Sherman Vc Firefly with 4 crew (Sgt Strawn, MM)
4 x Sherman III with 20 crew towing Porpoises – For Regimental and Squadron Commands (LCol Morton, Maj Blanchard, Capt Fraser, Capt Goodman)
1 x Jeep with Padre FGH (Capt Harrison) La Regiment de la Chaudiere
2 x Carrier Mortar
1 x Carrier Towing and 6 pdr Anti Tank gun
3 x Carrier Universal with 9 crew
22 men Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada
1 x Carrier towing 6 pdr Anti Tank gun
3 x Carrier Universal • 14 men Plus
2 x 15 cwt FFW with 2 crew from 375/114 LAA Regiment – Battery Command Reconnaissance
1 X Jeep with Tank Unit Landing Officer, 27th Canadian Armoured Regiment (Capt Baldwin)
5 men from 375/114 LAA Regiment – Battery Command Reconnaissance
2 men from ‘C’ Section 4 Canadian Provost Company
2 men with a balloon from 52 Beach Balloon Unit, RAF(1)
Serial 1512 is LCT4 932 carrying: 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse)
3 x Sherman III with 15 crew towing Porpoises
3 x Stuart Light Tank with 12 crew La Regiment de la Chaudiere
2 x Carrier Mortar
1 x Carrier towing 6 pdr Anti Tank gun
3 x Carrier • 22 men Plus
1 x Armoured Bulldozer Class II towing a Freuhauf trailer with 2 men vehicle party from 3rd Canadian Field Park Company, RCE
1 x Carrier Mortar with 4 crew from Queens Own Rifles of Canada Page 84
1 x Jeep with 2 crew from 321/93 LAA Regiment, RA. ‘E’ Troop reconnaissance
4 men from 321/93 LAA Regiment, RA. ‘E’ Troop reconnaissance
1 x Jeep with 3 crew from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE
4 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE
2 men from ‘C’ Section, 4 Canadian Provost Company
2 men with a balloon from 52 Beach Balloon Unit, RAF(1)
Serial 1513 is LCT4 934 carrying: 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse)
1 x Valentine Bridgelayer • 2 x Sherman Vc Firefly
2 x Jeep • 2 x Sherman III towing Porpoises
44 men Queens Own Rifles of Canada
2 x Carrier Towing 6 pdr Anti Tank gun
3 x Carrier Mortar
3 x Carrier Universal
21 men Plus
1 x Jeep with 2 crew from 375/114 LAA Regiment, RA
4 men from 375/114 LAA Regiment, RA
1 x Carrier MMG with 4 crew from ‘B’ Company, Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa (MG)
7 men from 16th Canadian Field Company, RCE
2 men with a balloon from 52 Beach Balloon Unit, RAF(1)
Nan White and Nan Red H + 75 Minutes The Field Artillery lands Nan White A Flotilla of eight LCT4 arrive carrying 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA and priority vehicles for 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade.(1)
Serial 1522 is LCT4 637 carrying priority vehicles for 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade:
3 x M14 Halftrack with 3 crew from 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
1 x Sherman III with 5 crew from 10th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Fort Garry Horse)
1 x Carrier MMG with 5 crew from ‘B’ Company, Cameron Highlanders of Ontario (MG)
4 men from ‘B’ Company, Cameron Highlanders of Ontario (MG)
1 x 15 cwt from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
2 x Carrier Towing with 6 pdr Anti Tank guns from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
12 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
2 x Carrier Towing with 6 pdr Anti Tank guns from La Regiment de la Chaudiere
1 x Jeep with 2 crew 155 Anti Aircraft Operations Room, RA
2 men from 155 Anti Aircraft Operations Room, RA • 1 x M14 Halftrack with 2 crew from ‘K’ (8 CIB) Signal Section, 3rd Canadian Infantry Division Signals
1 x BARV with 6 crew 23 Beach Recovery Section, REME
1 x 3 ton GS with 2 crew from 184 Field Company, RE
18 men with 3 handcarts from 184 Field Company, RE
6 men 375/114 LAA Regiment, RA • 2 men and a balloon from 52 Balloon Unit, RAF(1)
Serial 1524 is LCT4 885 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA.
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose (“F” Troop, 81st Bty)
1 x Sherman OP
2 x Carrier OP
1 x M14 Halftrack
52 men Plus
1 x Carrier Mortar with 4 crew from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
3 x Carrier with 9 crew from La Regiment de la Chaudiere
1 x White Scout Car with 6 crew from 72 Field Company, RE – Reconnaissance party.
3 men from Canadian Press Relations Service(1)
Serial 1525 is LCT4 530 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA.
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose (“C” Troop, 66th Bty)
2 x Sherman OP (“C” Troop, GPO, 66th Bty & Troop Commander, 66th Bty)
1 x Carrier OP
1 x M14 Halftrack
48 men Plus
1 x Carrier Mortar with 4 crew from La Regiment de la Chaudiere
3 x Carrier with 9 crew Queens Own Rifles of Canada
3 x men from Canadian Press Relations Service
1 x Amphibious Jeep with 2 crew from RN Commando(1)
Serial 1526 is LCT4 524 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA.
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose
2 x Sherman OP
1 x Carrier OP
1 x M14 Halftrack • 49 men Plus
1 x Carrier Towing and 6 pdr Anti Tank gun from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
3 x Carrier from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
14 men from Queens Own Rifles of Canada 14th Cdn Field Regiment, RCA on board LCT 4 Serial 1524
1 x Carrier Loyd with 3 crew from 5 Royal Berkshire Regiment. Beach Group. Carries 1 man from 244 Provost Company and 1 man from 21 Army Group Movement Control Pool (Military Landing Officer) – Reconnaissance party for Commander 8 Beach Group and Military Landing Officer. Note: this vehicle may have been replaced by a Weasel(1)
Serial 1527 is LCT4 516 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA.
Serial 1528 is LCT4 525 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose
2 x Sherman OP
1 x Carrier OP • 1 x M14 Halftrack
49 men Plus
3 x Carrier with 9 crew from La Regiment de la Chaudiere
1 x Carrier with 3 crew from Queens Own Rifles of Canada
1 x Carrier MMG with 5 crew from ‘B’ Company, Cameron Highlanders of Ontario (MG)
1 x Amphibious Jeep with 4 crew from 5 Royal Berkshire Regiment and 1 man from
244 Provost Company. Reconnaissance party for Commander 8 Beach Group(1)
1 x M14 Halftrack
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose
2 x Sherman OP
1 x Jeep
2 x Carrier OP • 55 men Plus
3 x Carrier with 9 crew from Queens Own Rifles of Canada.
1 x Carrier MMG with 5 crew from ‘B’ Company, Cameron Highlanders of Ontario (MG)(1)
Serial 1529 is LCT4 716 carrying: 14th Canadian Field Regiment, RCA
1 x M14 Halftrack
4 x M7 Priest 105mm SP, each towing a Porpoise MkII which has 125 rounds of ammunition stowed loose
2 x Sherman OP
1 x Jeep
2 x Carrier OP
55 men Plus
3 x Carrier with 9 crew from La Regiment de la Chaudiere
1 x Carrier with 3 crew from Queens Own Rifles of Canada(1)
We hope that this information was valuable to your research and general knowledge.
(1) – Capt. (N) (Ret’d) Michael Braham for the http://www.6thjuin1944.com in the article Operation Overlord/Neptune Force ‘J’ – Juno Beach
Just after the Fenian Raids, the Dominion of Canada required an upgrade to their issued firearms. With recent developments in firearm research, a breech-loaded firearm was standardized within the British military. The Dominion of Canada would follow suit with the conversion of its arsenal of Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle muskets to breech-loading Snider Enfields.
P53 Enfield Musket – QOR Museum Collection
This occurred with the machining of the rear section of the barrel and adding a breach to it. This breach would lock back but also swing open like a door. With a rearward pull, the cartridge would be pulled out of the chamber and into the breach, allowing the rifleman to tip the rifle over and the cartridge to fall out onto the ground.
Snider Enfield – QOR Museum Collection
Snider Enfield – QOR Museum Collection
Replica .577 Snider Cartridge
With the conversion, this would be the first widely issued self-contained cartridge to be issued to the Imperial and Canadian Militia. Instead of having the charge (black powder) with the projectile and then a percussion cap (the ignition), the loading time for a Snider was increasingly shorter. Using the self-contained cartridge and only having to open the breach to insert the round, then closing the breach.
Transition Period
On February 26th, 1867, the Regiment was ordered to start exchanging their P53 Enfield muskets for Snider Enfields. For this transition period, the Regiment would be issued a transition period Firearm.
Assistant Adjutant General’s Office Toronto 26 feb 1867(1)
Militia District orders(1)
No. 1 As the issue of the Spencer rifles is only a temporary measure pending receipt of breech loaders, the imperial government would not sanction the marking of the arms. No. 2 Unless when on service, it will not be necessary to carry more than 21 rounds of ammunition per man. No. 3 No new description of pouches will be purchased, the issue of the Spencer rifles being only temporary. No. 4 Application has been made to the imperial government to ascertain whether there are scabbards and slings in store; if there are not, steps will be taken to procure them. No. 5 There is no ammunition for the use of the Spencer rifle, 21 rounds per man of the service ammunition may be needed for active service.
Headquarters Toronto 27 Feb 1867(1)
Regimental Orders
2 The Spencer repeating rifles will be issued Friday next, 60 to each company, and captains will be strictly held responsible that all rifles be lodged in the armoures after drill and that no man be allowed under any circumstance taking them home under further orders.
Rifleman holding a Spencer Rifle 1867 – QOR Museum Collection
Headquarters
Toronto 6 March 1867
Regimental Orders.(1)
No. 1 In addition to the Regiment’s No. on the sling of each rifle, the number to be found on the small of the rifle behind the hammer, is also to be placed on the roll in each armoury. No. 2 The bayonets, screwdrivers and washers belonging to the Spencer Rifles will not be served out with the Rifles until further orders. Captains of Companies will see that they are put away carefully until required. No. 3 Until the parade is formed, each company will place a sentry over its armoury to see that none but members of the company take out rifles. The doors will then be locked, and no one admitted until the parade is dismissed.
By Order Otter Capt & Adj
Spencer Repeater – QOR Museum Collection
Headquarters
Ottawa, June 14, 1867
General Orders(1)
No. 1 Arrangements have been made for the exchange of the rifles now in possession of the volunteers for Snider-Enfield breech-loading rifles.
No. 2 The exchange will be made with the least possible delay, and to effect which, depots of their rifles and of ammunition for the same will be found at Quebec, Montreal, Prescott, Kingston, Toronto and London from whence district staff officers may draw to supply the corps in their several districts.
No. 3 Upon receipt of these rifles by the several corps, the arms and ammunition at present in their possession are to be returned as follows. The muzzle loading rifles and ammunition for the present, the provincial storekeeper at Quebec and the Peabody, Spencer, Westley Richards breech loaders with ammunition for the same to the provincial storekeeper at the district headquarters of the several districts to which corps in presentation of the last named arms belong.
No. 4 The arms to be returned are to be forwarded to their respective destinations by the most direct public convenience in the same boxes that contained the Snider Enfield breech loaders as received.
No. 5 The Commanding officers of each corps will be held responsible that the arms returned are clean, carefully packed, and properly addressed to their several destinations.
Headquarter Toronto 23 Aug 1867 Regt Orders(1)
The Snider Enfield Rifles having arrived, Officers Commanding Coys will see that the following articles are now in their respective org.
are lodged in the different armouries by Saturday, the 24th, just at 8pm, in order that they may be at once packed up for exchange.
The bayonet scabbards must be returned to the quarter masters stores at the same time.
Slings to be retained in the armouries
by order
Otter Capt & Adj
3 Band Snider Enfield – QOR Museum Collection
Having done this transition in under 7 months is quite the accomplishment for a newly formed force. This upgrade would bring Canada to the forefront of firearm evolution and would aid the Canadian militia in the following Fenian Raids.
The 3 Band Snider Enfield was marked on the top of the brass butt plate “QOR” with the rack number which corresponds with a number on a rifle rack at the armouries of the Regiment.
3 Band Snider Enfield – QOR Museum Collection
Within Rifle traditions, usually a shorter rifle was to be issued with the Baker rifle during the Napoleonic era, the Brunswick rifles being issued a sword bayonet (longer than the Flinklock Muskets of the Line Regiments). The Regiment, from its formation, was issued the 3-banded rifles (the number of barrel bands on the rifle) with a minor issue of short and long length Spencers during the Fenian raids of 1866. The Regiment’s 3-band Sniders would be replaced by a 2 Band Snider with the sword bayonet on 22nd February 1877.
22 February 1877 – An issue of 550 new Scout Snider Rifles (5 groves and steel barrels) made to the Regiment in exchange for the long Snider, also Accoutrements (Black) Second Hand, sufficient to make up the establishment in place of those condemned. (2)
2 Band Scout Snider – QOR Museum Collection
2 band Scout Snider Sword Bayonet – QOR Museum Collection
The new 2 Band Scout Snider rifles were Regimental marked “QOR” with a corresponding rifle rack number on the top of the wood buttstock. This was marked in this place due to the new rifles having a steel buttplate.
2 Band Snider Enfield – QOR Museums Collection
These New Scout Snider rifles with 2 barrel bands would serve the Regiment up to the adoption of the Long Lee Enfield/Metfords in 1897.
Thank you for reading!
Graham Humphrey CD
Regimental Orders – QOR Museum Archives
2. Regimental Diary 1860-1895 – City of Toronto Archive
For many years it was thought that the Queen’s Own provided about 34 Officers and Soldiers to serve with the Canadian contingents that fought alongside the British Army in the South African, or Boer, War between 1899-1902, it turns-out that this number was underestimated.
Over the past 2 years, museum volunteer Brock has been carefully scanning and recording many of the Museum’s large, fragile, handwritten Orders, Records of Service and Service Rolls. Most of these are over 100 years old and wouldn’t stand up to constant handling so they have been scanned and added to the Archives page of the museum website for all to view.
It was just recently noticed that in the 1898-1901 Regimental Orders, the names and companies of the Queen’s Own men who were authorized to volunteer for active service in South Africa were written. When research was complete and the names cross-checked with the South Africa Service Files at Library and Archives Canada, it was determined that an additional 20 QOR soldiers needed to be added to the list. This makes a total of 54 soldiers from the Queen’s Own who volunteered for active service and deployed to South Africa with various Canadian Units.
The listing, including names and units they served with, can be found on the museum website timeline under TIMELINE: 1900-1924/SOUTH AFRICAN WAR/RIFLEMEN OF THE QUEEN’S OWN WHO SERVED IN THE SOUTH AFRICA CAMPAIGN 1899-1900 or at the link here.
From the 1960 Regimental History by Lieutenant Colonel W.T. Barnard
LE MESNIL-PATRY
“On 10 June the battalion moved to Neuf Mer and was placed under command of the 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade. Orders were received on 11 June, at 1100 hrs, that The Queen’s Own would attack and seize the high ground south of Cheux. First, however, it was necessary to capture Le Mesnil-Patry. This was on the front of 7 Canadian Infantry Brigade. The Regina Rifles were to form the firm base for the attack. The attack was timed to go in at 1300 hrs. This, as one company commander put it, was a plan “conceived in sin and born in iniquity”. First, no time was allowed for reconnaissance; second, no artillery preparation was provided despite the fact that it was known that the place was strongly held; and thirdly, the men were expected to go in riding on tanks through flat wheat fields, thus providing perfect targets for the defenders.
The attack on Le Mesnil-Patry was to be made by D Company under Major J. N. Gordon. A Company, under Major H. E. Dalton, on the capture of the village, would pass through and secure the road junction half a mile beyond the town. Then B Company and C Company were to be carried on tanks a distance of some five miles from the Start Line to the high ground south of Cheux – a not unambitious programme.
Le Mesnil Patry today.
Despite the hurry, it was about 1430 hours before D Company, riding on the tanks of B Squadron 1st Hussars, left Norry-en-Bessin. Le Mesnil-Patry was 1,200 yards away. The intervening country was practically all flat fields of grain. About 300 yards had been covered before the storm broke. In a few minutes, half the company and half the tanks had been wiped out. The losses would probably have been worse had not Lieutenant B. Dunkelman detected tank gun fire coming from haycocks. Immediately the mortar platoon rained down bombs and set the haycocks afire. That portion of the enemy firepower did no more damage.
D Company survivors now kept to the ground and crawled doggedly forward. Despite losses the outskirts of Le Mesnil-Patry were reached. Then Major Gordon fell wounded. Lieutenant R. Fleming took over the company. C Now, in an attempt to turn the tide, Lieutenant H. G. W. Bean, already wounded in the leg, gathered together Sergeant. S. T. Scrutton, seven riflemen and two tanks. Working to a flank the little group entered the village at the eastern end. Lt. Bean and Sgt. Scrutton, covered by the riflemen, directed the fire of the tanks; and, for a time, wreaked havoc. During this interval, Lt. Bean had been wounded again. Now the tanks’ wireless failed and Lieutenant Bean fell wounded for the third time. Sergeant Scrutton gathered what was left of his, intrepid little party, ordered them on the tanks and, by a miracle, roared back safely. Four returned unscathed, two were killed, one was missing and two were wounded. This action was an epic; spine-tingling in cold courage; brilliant in initiative and execution; a magnificent attempt to resolve a hopeless situation. Lt. Bean was awarded the Military Cross and Sgt. Scrutton the Military Medal.
D Company by now was thinned to the vanishing point. B Squadron, 1st Hussars, was in the same case. Both were ordered to retire. Then further calamity struck. The Germans managed to get into our artillery wireless net and put in a call for defensive fire on The Queen’s Own area and on The Regina Rifles at Norry-en-Bessin. It was a clever move on the part of the enemy. Immediately heavy fire poured down; some twenty minutes elapsed before Brigade H.Q. could get it stopped. The havoc wrought was dreadful. Not only did The Queen’s Own suffer. The forward company of The Regina Rifles was badly shot up; the battalion’s reserve ammunition was destroyed, and the 1st Hussars lost many of their reserve tanks positioned in Norry-en-Bessin.
The 1st Hussars, who fought throughout most gallantly, lost eight officers, fifty-two other ranks and nineteen tanks. D Company, QOR of C, went in 135 strong. Initially, eleven came back but during the next twenty-four hours other survivors made their way back to the lines. That day the battalion lost one officer and fifty-three [actually 49] other ranks killed in action; one other rank died of wounds. Three officers and thirty other ranks were wounded; four other ranks received severe battle injuries. One officer and one other rank received battle injuries but remained on duty. In all eleven men were captured; five were repatriated after the war; the fate of the other six is given below. Lieutenant R. Fleming, the one officer killed, was a young and promising subaltern. He had been married but a month. Company Sergeant Major J. Forbes and Sergeant J. M. Mitchell, both first-rate soldiers, had fallen. An English newspaper summed up the whole action with the comment, “It was a modern version of The Charge of the Light Brigade”.
At first, it seemed that little had been accomplished. Later the view was taken that, viewed as a “spoiling attack”, an enemy concentration had been completely disorganized and a proposed counter-attack had been brought to naught. The next day, Lieutenant-General G. G. Simonds, G.O.C. Second Canadian Corps; stated: “While the battle yesterday seemed futile, it actually put a Panzer Division attack on skids, thereby saving 7 Canadian Infantry Brigade from being cut off and, in the broader picture, it helped 7 British Armoured Division to advance on our right flank.” The sector, previously very troublesome, gave no more bother, and on 16-17 June, after a British advance on the right, the place was occupied without a shot being fired. The British found fourteen knocked-out German tanks and over two thousand Nazi dead in the fields and ditches.”
QOR Soldiers at the monument in Le Mesnil Patry in June 2024.
The battle of Le Mesnil-Patry saw the second-highest number of Queen’s Own killed in action in one day. At the end of 11 June 1944, 50 soldiers of The Queen’s Own Rifles were killed in action. Three officers and thirty other ranks were wounded.
Eventually, 48 riflemen would be reburied in a cemetery beyond Bernières-sur- Mer which would be named the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery and two were buried in Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, the
Municipality of Brighton has scenic landscapes and a deeply rooted history of support for each other and service to those who pass through. Over 5,800 kilometres away, in the heart of Normandy, France, lies the picturesque village of Anisy, surrounded by its rolling fields and historic architecture. Anisy, located just a few kilometres from the historic city of Caen, boasts a population of approximately 800 residents. Its history is steeped in the legacy of the Second World War, as the village played a pivotal role during the D-Day landings and subsequent battles for liberation.
Today, Anisy combines its wartime significance with the tranquillity of rural French life, offering its residents and visitors a glimpse into its storied past and its current charm. At first glance, these two communities might seem worlds apart, but a profound and poignant connection has drawn them together: the heroic legacy of Clarke Lawson, a Brighton native and member of the Queen’s Own Rifles, who gave his life in the liberation of Anisy during World War II. This shared history has culminated in the twinning of these two towns, forging bonds of friendship and remembrance.
Clarke Lynson Lawson was born on May 8th, 1905, in Brighton, Ontario. He was the son of George Lynson Lawson and Sarah Elizabeth Maybee. Clarke was educated at the Lawson Settlement School and Brighton High School and later attended Kingston Dairy School. Following this, he took a radio course by correspondence and held a radiotrician diploma, but he mainly worked as a local farmer. On August 12th, 1936, he married Stella Peters at Wicklow, Ontario and later had a daughter named Helen Marie.
Clarke enlisted with the Midland Regiment on November 15th, 1940, in Cobourg, Ontario. He went overseas on March 22, 1943, and was posted to the Canadian Infantry Reinforcement Unit and then
transferred to The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada on June 11th, 1943.
According to the military service records, he survived the landing on Juno Beach on June 6th, 1944, but died later in the day while liberating the village of Anisy, the final objective for The Queen’s Own Rifles on D-Day. He was buried in Beny-sur-Mer Cemetery.
For the people of Anisy, Clarke’s sacrifice is not a distant memory but a cherished part of their
community’s history. Each year, the village commemorates the liberation, ensuring that the contributions of soldiers like Clarke Lawson are never forgotten. Across the ocean, Brighton residents have also honoured Clarke’s memory through annual ceremonies in Memorial Park, and his name appears on the cenotaph located there. It is this shared commitment to remembrance that laid the foundation for the twinning of these two towns.
In 2017, in the presence of members of the regiment, the Village of Anisy named a new street in his honour: Rue Clarke Lawson. “I was made aware by John Stephens, descended from a long-time Brighton family and the Curator of the Queen’s Own Rifles Museum and Archive, that Anisy had honoured our very own Clarke Lawson, by naming a road after him. This led to us reaching out to Anisy’s Mayor Nicolas Delahaye, and after several conversations, in March 2024, we officially proclaimed our twin town as Anisy,” said Mayor Brian Ostrander. “It is a friendship forged in war and is now a friendship of remembrance, strengthened by strong bonds between our two communities.”
While Clarke Lawson’s story is about courage, sacrifice, and enduring impact, his legacy is now about bringing together two communities far away from each other.
One of the most exciting aspects of twinning is the potential for cultural exchange opportunities that it creates. Perhaps schools in Brighton and Anisy can partner on educational initiatives, allowing students to learn about each other’s history, language, and way of life. Maybe virtual “pen-pal” programs, joint art projects, or even exchange visits can foster meaningful connections among young people in both communities.
Cultural events have also become a cornerstone of the twinning of other communities. Anisy could share its rich culinary and artistic traditions with Brighton, or maybe a local group could host a French-themed
festival. In return, Brighton could showcase its heritage, from Canadian music and cuisine to its renowned Applefest celebration. These potential future events not only celebrate the unique identities of each town but can highlight the common values that unite them.
Beyond cultural enrichment, the twinning also has the potential to bring tangible benefits to both towns. Increased tourism is one such advantage, as residents and visitors could be drawn to explore the history and beauty of each location. Brighton residents visiting Anisy can walk the streets where Clarke Lawson once served, while Anisy’s visitors to Brighton can experience the warmth of the town that shaped
this soldier’s character.
The twinning of Brighton, Ontario, and Anisy, France, is far more than a symbolic gesture. It is a living tribute to the memory of Clarke Lawson and the countless others who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. At the same time, it is a forward-looking partnership that can celebrate potential cultural exchange, foster economic growth, and continue to strengthen social bonds.
As these two towns continue to grow their relationship, they remind us of the power of connection and the importance of remembering the past while building a brighter future. The story of Brighton and Anisy’s twinning is not just about two communities; it is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the ties that bind us across continents and generations.
Today (8 June 2025), serving soldiers of the regiment will be in Anisy during the unveiling of the Brighton, Ontario, exhibition that accompanies the twinning ceremony to honour Rifleman Clarke Lawson.
The final months of the Second World War were marked by intense fighting as Allied forces pushed to liberate occupied territories and bring the conflict to an end. Among the many brave Canadian regiments that played a crucial role in these efforts, The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada stood out for their remarkable courage and sacrifice in the liberation of Holland in 1945. Their efforts not only helped free the Dutch people from years of Nazi occupation but also cemented the strong bond between Canada and the Netherlands, a relationship that continues to this day.
A Legacy of Service
The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, one of Canada’s oldest infantry regiments, had already established a strong legacy of service by the time they were deployed in Europe during the Second World War. Landing in Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, they were among the first Canadian troops to storm Juno Beach, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination. Their actions in France, Belgium, and ultimately the Netherlands showcased their unwavering commitment to the fight for freedom.
The Battle for Holland
By the time the Allies reached the Netherlands in late 1944 and early 1945, the country had suffered immensely under Nazi occupation. Starvation, forced labour, and violent reprisals against resistance fighters had devastated the Dutch population. The Queen’s Own Rifles played a key role in the liberation efforts, pushing through well-fortified German defenses and enduring fierce resistance from enemy forces.
In April 1945, The Queen’s Own Rifles advanced through the eastern and northern regions of Holland. One of their most notable engagements was the assault on the town of Deventer. Fighting street by street, the regiment overcame heavily entrenched German positions, demonstrating exceptional bravery and tactical skill. Their efforts helped secure key supply routes and enabled the continued push into the heart of the Netherlands.
Sacrifice and the Cost of Freedom
The liberation of the Netherlands came at a heavy cost. The Queen’s Own Rifles suffered significant casualties during their campaign, with many young Canadian soldiers giving their lives to free a nation they had never known. Their sacrifice was not in vain. By early May 1945, Canadian forces, including The Queen’s Own Rifles, had successfully liberated large portions of the Netherlands. On May 5, Germany surrendered in the Netherlands, bringing an end to years of suffering for the Dutch people.
A Lasting Bond
The heroism of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, along with other Canadian regiments, left an indelible mark on Dutch history. To this day, the people of the Netherlands express deep gratitude for Canada’s role in their liberation. Each year, Dutch citizens, young and old, honour the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers during remembrance ceremonies and by maintaining the graves of fallen soldiers in immaculate condition.
The liberation of Holland in 1945 was a defining moment in Canadian military history, and The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada played a pivotal role in this achievement. Their bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to justice not only secured freedom for millions but also forged a bond between Canada and the Netherlands that endures to this day.
From May 3-10m 2025, 35 serving soldiers of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada will be on NLD80: Return to Europe for the 80th Anniversary of V-E Day and the liberation of The Netherlands.
Today, we raise a glass to a truly remarkable institution: The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada. For 165 years, this distinguished regiment has stood as a cornerstone of Canada’s military heritage, embodying dedication, courage, and unwavering service.
Founded on April 26, 1860, as the 2nd Battalion, Volunteer Militia (Rifles) of Toronto, the regiment quickly established itself as a vital part of the burgeoning Canadian identity. From its early days drilling in the streets of Toronto to its pivotal roles in major conflicts and peacekeeping missions around the globe, The Queen’s Own Rifles has woven itself into the very fabric of our nation’s history.
QOR troops being welcomed in The Netherlands.
Think back to the Fenian Raids, the Northwest Rebellion, the battlefields of the First and Second World Wars, and the more recent deployments in the Balkans, Afghanistan and beyond. In each of these moments, members of The Queen’s Own Rifles have answered the call of duty with bravery and distinction. Their sacrifices and achievements are a testament to the enduring spirit of the regiment and the individuals who have proudly worn its cap badge.
CWO Mark Shannon, CD in Afghanistan
But the legacy of The Queen’s Own Rifles extends far beyond the battlefield. The regiment has deep roots within the Toronto community, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and civic engagement. Through its various activities and affiliations, it continues to connect with and inspire generations of Canadians.
Today, as we celebrate this significant milestone, let’s take a moment to reflect on the rich history and the countless contributions of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada. Let us honour the past, acknowledge the present, and look forward to a future where this esteemed regiment continues to serve with the same dedication and excellence that has defined it for the past 165 years.
In Pace Paratus!
In the Regiment’s earliest days, various “regimental” songs were written and sung while marching. The song below was found on the inside cover of the Regimental Orders: 1868-1874. [00382] Reprinted with original punctuation.
SONG OF THE “QUEEN’S OWN RIFLES”
Up, comrades, up! ’tis our bugle –
The assembly, it sounds loud and clear;
Of time, as of fare, let’s be frugal,
And on with our old fighting gear.
Though our feet be sore with the marching,
And hunger won’t leave us alone,
Though with thirst our lips be parching,
We’re prepared – our we not – Queen’s Own?
CHORUS:
Though our feet be sore with the marching,
And hunger won’t leave us alone,
Though with thirst our lips be parching,
We’re prepared – are we not – Queen’s Own?
II.
On! Comrades, On! travel faster;
On! not a moment’s delay;
‘Twill bring but disgrace and disaster,
And may make many sad hearts to-day.
On our quick march, perchance, are depending
Victory and the lives of the brave;
The quicker – the sooner it’s ending,
Aud rest comes with peace or the grave.
CHORUS
Though our feet be sore with the marching,
And hunger won’t leave us alone,
Though with thirst our lips be parching,
We’re prepared – are we not – Queen’s Own?
Ill.
Home! comrades, home! rifles slinging,
Hearts bounding high with delight;
Flags are flying, the joy bells are ringing,
As they welcome us home from the fight.
Now off to our peaceful vocations,
The workshop, the desk, or the gown;
We are sure of good quarters and rations,
Till the next time they need the Queen’s Own.
CHORUS
Now off to our peaceful vocations,
The workshop, the desk, or the gown;
We are sure of good quarters and rations,
Till the next time they need the Queen’s Own.
The wind shifted, carrying with it an insidious yellow-green haze. For the men of the 3rd Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, dug in near St. Julien on the afternoon of April 22nd, 1915, the idyllic Flemish countryside transformed into a scene of unimaginable horror. The Second Battle of Ypres had begun, and the Canadians were about to face a weapon unlike any they had encountered before: chlorine gas.
Formed in Toronto, the 3rd Battalion, known affectionately as the “Toronto Regiment,” had arrived in the Ypres Salient with the rest of the 1st Canadian Division, eager to prove their mettle. Little did they know that their baptism of fire would be etched into the annals of Canadian military history for its sheer tenacity and sacrifice.
As the French Colonial troops on their left buckled and fled under the suffocating cloud, a gaping hole opened in the Allied line. The situation was critical. The German advance threatened to outflank the British and Canadian forces, potentially leading to a catastrophic breakthrough. It was in this desperate moment that the 3rd Battalion, alongside their comrades in the 1st Canadian Division, demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience.
Facing the terrifying and disorienting effects of the gas – the burning eyes, the searing throat, the desperate struggle for breath – the Torontonians stood their ground. Armed with little more than their Ross rifles and unwavering determination, they poured a steady fire into the advancing German ranks. Their steadfast defence, though under relentless artillery and machine-gun fire, bought precious time for reinforcements to arrive and for the shattered Allied line to be partially reformed.
The fighting raged for days. The 3rd Battalion endured repeated gas attacks, each one a fresh wave of terror and suffering. They counter-attacked fiercely, often with bayonets fixed, pushing back the enemy inch by agonizing inch. The casualty lists mounted alarmingly, each name a testament to the brutal intensity of the battle.
On the morning of 23 April, “C” and “D” Companies under Major A. J. E. Kirkpatrick, a Queen’s Own officer, filled in the gap existing between Kitchener’s Wood and the village of St. Julien. Throughout the day and night, the flank held. There was no artillery support. By the morning, “C” and “D” Companies had practically ceased to exist. Meanwhile, the British were rushing up support. By 27 April, the line was stabilized, the 3rd Battalion being the last to be withdrawn. St. Julien or the Second Battle of Ypres was the unit’s first battle. The “green Colonial troops” – a description used by one writer- had played a major part in preventing a German breakthrough to the Channel ports. The term was not used again. The casualties were 19 officers and 460 other ranks. These included a large number becoming prisoners of war, including Kirkpatrick, then Major Peter Anderson (who may have been the only Canadian Officer to successfully escape from a German POW camp), then Captain John Streight (D Company), and then Captain Baptist Johnson.
The Second Battle of Ypres was a brutal introduction to modern industrial warfare. The use of poison gas shocked the world and left an indelible scar on the landscape and the minds of those who fought there. While the battle ultimately resulted in a strategic withdrawal for the Allies, the unwavering courage and sacrifice of the 3rd Battalion, and the entire 1st Canadian Division, were crucial in preventing a complete German victory.
Their actions in the face of unimaginable adversity demonstrated the tenacity and fighting spirit that would come to define the Canadian soldier throughout the First World War. The story of the 3rd Battalion at Ypres serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the extraordinary bravery that can emerge in the darkest of times. Their sacrifice on that gas-choked battlefield will forever be remembered as a pivotal moment in Canadian military history.
The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada Regimental Museum and Archive 