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{{Use Canadian English|date=February 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2013}}
{{more footnotes|date=February 2012}}
{{Infobox military unit
{{Infobox military unit
|unit_name=Canadian Grenadier Guards
|unit_name=Canadian Grenadier Guards
|image=[[File:Canadian Grenadiers Guards Cap badge.svg|150px]]
|image=[[File:Canadian Grenadiers Guards Cap badge.svg|150px]]
|caption=Cap badge of the Canadian Grenadier Guards
|caption=Cap badge of the Canadian Grenadier Guards
|dates=1764 - present
|dates=1859 - present
|country=[[Canada]]
|country=[[Canada]]
|branch=[[Primary Reserves]]
|branch=[[Primary Reserves]]
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'''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' (CGG) is the second most senior and oldest [[infantry]] [[regiment]] in the [[Primary Reserve|Reserve Force]] of the [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. Located in [[Montreal]], its primary role is the provision of combat-ready troops in support of Canadian regular infantry. However, as it is also a [[Household Division|Household]] regiment, it performs similar ceremonial duties to the [[Foot Guards|Guards]] regiments of the [[British Army]], which primarily entails mounting the guard on [[Parliament Hill]] and at [[Rideau Hall]] in [[Ottawa]], a task it shares with Canada's other Household infantry regiment, the [[Governor General's Foot Guards]]. The Canadian Grenadier Guards is an allied regiment to the British [[Grenadier Guards]]. (Also see [[Ceremonial Guard]])
'''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' (CGG) is the second most senior and oldest [[infantry]] [[regiment]] in the [[Primary Reserve|Reserve Force]] of the [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. Located in [[Montreal]], its primary role is the provision of combat-ready troops in support of Canadian regular infantry. However, as it is also a [[Household Division|Household]] regiment, it performs similar ceremonial duties to the [[Foot Guards|Guards]] regiments of the [[British Army]], which primarily entails mounting the guard on [[Parliament Hill]] and at [[Rideau Hall]] in [[Ottawa]], a task it shares with Canada's other Household infantry regiment, the [[Governor General's Foot Guards]]. The Canadian Grenadier Guards is an allied regiment to the British [[Grenadier Guards]]. (Also see [[Ceremonial Guard]])


==LINEAGE==
==Official short history of the regiment==
'''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' originated in Montreal, Quebec on 17 November 1859 as the '''First Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada'''. It was redesignated as '''The First (or Prince of Wales's) Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia''' on 7 September 1860. On 2 May 1898 it amalgamated with the '''6th Battalion "Fusiliers"''' and was redesignated the '''1st Battalion "Prince of Wales' Regiment Fusiliers"'''. It was redesignatedas the '''1st Regiment "Prince of Wales' Fusiliers"''' on 8 May 1900; as the '''1st Regiment Canadian Grenadier Guards''' on 29 December 1911; as '''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' on 29 March 1920; as the '''2nd (Reserve) Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' on 7 November 1941; as '''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' on 15 February 1946; as '''The Canadian Grenadier Guards (6th Battalion, The Canadian Guards)''' on 1 September 1954 before reverting to '''The Canadian Grenadier Guards''' on 1 August 1976.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>
''(taken from Annex A of the Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders)''


The '''6th Battalion "Fusiliers"''' originated in Montréal, Quebec on 31 January 1862 as the '''6th Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles, Canada'''. It was redesignated as the '''Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada, or "Hochelaga Light Infantry"''' on 5 June 1863; as the '''6th Battalion "Hochelaga Fusiliers"''' on 3 December 1875; and finally as the '''6th Battalion "Fusiliers"''' on 28 January 18764 On 2 May 1898, it amalgamated with '''The First (or Prince of Wales's) Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia'''.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>
===Inception and pre-20th century===
The history of the Canadian Grenadier Guards parallels in many ways the evolution of Canada as a nation, beginning in the early days after the [[Treaty of Paris (1763)|Treaty of Paris in 1763]].


==PERPETUATIONS==
On 12 March 1764, [[Colonel]] [[Frederick Haldimand]] ordered, from [[Trois-Rivières]], [[Quebec]], the formation of a volunteer unit to aid in the defence of Canada. In response, the '''1st Company, District of Montreal Militia''' was raised, under the command of Captain de Montizambert; the company was drawn from the traditional Militia of the Ancien Régime, and was predominantly French-speaking. This company was raised in status to a battalion in 1807, becoming the '''1st Battalion, Montreal Militia''' under the command of [[Lieutenant-Colonel]] [[James McGill|The Honourable James McGill]], founder of [[McGill University]]. Elements of the 1st Battalion fought at the [[Battle of Chateauguay]] (26 October 1813) under the command of [[Lieutenant-Colonel]] [[Charles de Salaberry]]; as a result of their conduct, the 1st Battalion was awarded a pair of [[Colours]] after recommendation by the Commander-in-Chief, [[Sir George Prevost]], to [[George IV of the United Kingdom|the Prince Regent]].
===The War of 1812===
*'''1st Militia Light Infantry Battalion'''
*'''2nd Battalion, Select Embodied Militia'''
*'''Corps of Canadian Voyageurs'''
*'''Montreal Incorporated Volunteers'''
*'''Montreal Militia Battalion'''
*'''Provincial Commissariat Voyageurs'''
*'''1st Battalion (City of Montreal) “British Militia”'''<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===The Great War===
*'''[[87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF]]'''
*'''[[245th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF]]'''<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

==OPERATIONAL HISTORY==
[[FIle:CGG_Camp_Flag.jpg|thumb|300px| The camp flag of The Canadian Greabadier Guards.]]===The Fenian Raids===
'''The First Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia''' was called out on active service on 8 March 1866 and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 March 1866.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

'''The Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada''' was called out on active service from 8 to 31 March and from 1 to 22 June 1866 and served on the South-eastern frontier.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

'''The First Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia''' was called out on active service on 24 May 1870and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 May 1870.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

'''The Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada''' was called out on active service on 24 May 1870 and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 May 1870.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===South African War===
The regiment contributed volunteers for the Canadian Contingents during the South African War.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===The Great War===
Details of the regiment were placed on active service on 6 August 1914 for local protection duties.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

The '''[[87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF]]''' was authorized on 22 December 1915 and embarked for Britain on 23 April 1916. It disembarked in France on 12 August 1916, where it fought as part of the '''11th Infantry Brigade, [[4th Canadian Division]]''' in France and Flanders until the end of the war. The battalion was subsequently disbanded on 30 August 1920.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

The '''[[245th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF]]''' was authorized on 15 July 1916 and embarked for Britain on 3 May 1917 where it was absorbed by the '''23rd Reserve Battalion, CEF''' on 14 May 1917 to provide reinforcements to the Canadian Corps in the field. The battalion was subsequently disbanded on 17 July 1917.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===The Second World War===
The regiment mobilized '''The Canadian Grenadier Guards, CASF''' on 24 May 1940. It was redesignated as the '''1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, CASF''' on 7 November 1940. It was converted to armour and redesignated as the '''22nd Armoured Regiment (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), CAC, CASF''' on 26 January 1942 and as the '''22nd Armoured Regiment (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), RCAC, CASF''' on 2 August 1945. It embarked for Britain on 25 September 1942. On 26 July 1944, it landed in France as part of the '''4th Armoured Brigade, [[4th Canadian Armoured Division]]''', and it continued to fight in North West Europe until the end of the war. The overseas regiment was disbanded on 15 February 1946.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

On 1 June 1945, a second Active Force component of the regiment was mobilized for service in the Pacific theatre of operations as the '''22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), CAC, CASF'''6 It was redesignated as the '''22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), RCAC, CASF''' and was disbanded on 1 November 1945.<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===War In Afghanistan===
The regiment contributed volunteers for the Canadian task forces Contingents during the War in Afghanistan.

==History==
===Predecessor and Perpetuated Units===
The history of the Canadian Grenadier Guards parallels in many ways the evolution of Canada as a nation, beginning in the early days after the [[Treaty of Paris (1763)|Treaty of Paris in 1763]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>

On 12 March 1764, [[Colonel]] [[Frederick Haldimand]] ordered, from [[Trois-Rivières]], [[Quebec]], the formation of a volunteer unit to aid in the defence of Canada. In response, the '''1st Company, District of Montreal Militia''' was raised, under the command of Captain de Montizambert; the company was drawn from the traditional Militia of the Ancien Régime, and was predominantly French-speaking. This company was raised in status to a battalion in 1807, becoming the '''1st Battalion, Montreal Militia''' under the command of [[Lieutenant-Colonel]] [[James McGill|The Honourable James McGill]], founder of [[McGill University]]. Elements of the 1st Battalion fought at the [[Battle of Chateauguay]] (26 October 1813) under the command of [[Lieutenant-Colonel]] [[Charles de Salaberry]]; as a result of their conduct, the 1st Battalion was awarded a pair of [[Colours]] after recommendation by the Commander-in-Chief, [[Sir George Prevost]], to [[George IV of the United Kingdom|the Prince Regent]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


[[File:GuardParade.jpg|thumb|Right GuardParade|Members of the Canadian Grenadier Guards on parade in [[Ottawa]], [[Ontario]]]]
[[File:GuardParade.jpg|thumb|Right GuardParade|Members of the Canadian Grenadier Guards on parade in [[Ottawa]], [[Ontario]]]]
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[[File:GuardRG31.jpg|thumb|Right GuardRG31|Guards in [[Afghanistan]], in front of an [[RG-31 Nyala]] [[armoured personnel carrier]]]]
[[File:GuardRG31.jpg|thumb|Right GuardRG31|Guards in [[Afghanistan]], in front of an [[RG-31 Nyala]] [[armoured personnel carrier]]]]


The Select Embodied Militia continued to exist after the [[War of 1812]], being called upon next during the [[Rebellion of 1837]]. Various units existed as Montreal Rifles, Loyal Montreal Volunteers and later Montreal Volunteer Rifles. With the passage of the Militia Act in 1859, the Montreal Rifles (and other independent companies) became the '''First Battalion, Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada''' on 17 November 1859, the first "Volunteer Militia" battalion to be formed in the [[British Empire]]. In 1860, the unit was raised to regimental status by [[Edward VII of the United Kingdom|The Prince of Wales]] with the title of '''First or "Prince of Wales" Regiment, Volunteer Rifles of the Canadian Milita'''; its regimental status was unique within the Canadian Militia, highlighted by the Regimental motto ''Nulli Secundus'' and its designation as the First Regiment. The Prince of Wales became the Honorary Colonel, an appointment he continued to hold after his coronation as King Edward VII in 1902.
The Select Embodied Militia continued to exist after the [[War of 1812]], being called upon next during the [[Rebellion of 1837]]. Various units existed as Montreal Rifles, Loyal Montreal Volunteers and later Montreal Volunteer Rifles. With the passage of the Militia Act in 1859, the Montreal Rifles (and other independent companies) became the '''First Battalion, Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada''' on 17 November 1859, the first "Volunteer Militia" battalion to be formed in the [[British Empire]]. In 1860, the unit was raised to regimental status by [[Edward VII of the United Kingdom|The Prince of Wales]] with the title of '''First or "Prince of Wales" Regiment, Volunteer Rifles of the Canadian Milita'''; its regimental status was unique within the Canadian Militia, highlighted by the Regimental motto ''Nulli Secundus'' and its designation as the First Regiment. The Prince of Wales became the Honorary Colonel, an appointment he continued to hold after his coronation as King Edward VII in 1902.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


In addition to those directly antecedent to the First Regiment, the 6th Battalion, Volunteer Militia, was raised in 1862, which later became the 6th Battalion Hochelaga Light Infantry and subsequently the 6th Battalion Fusiliers. In 1898, this Battalion disbanded and absorbed into the First Regiment to become the '''1st Battalion Prince of Wales Regiment Fusiliers''', which then became the '''1st Regiment, Prince of Wales' Fusiliers''' in 1900. Lieutenant-Colonel J.H. Burland, last Commanding Officer of the Sixth Fusiliers, became the first Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel in 1904.
In addition to those directly antecedent to the First Regiment, the 6th Battalion, Volunteer Militia, was raised in 1862, which later became the 6th Battalion Hochelaga Light Infantry and subsequently the 6th Battalion Fusiliers. In 1898, this Battalion disbanded and absorbed into the First Regiment to become the '''1st Battalion Prince of Wales Regiment Fusiliers''', which then became the '''1st Regiment, Prince of Wales' Fusiliers''' in 1900. Lieutenant-Colonel J.H. Burland, last Commanding Officer of the Sixth Fusiliers, became the first Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel in 1904.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


During the period from 1859 to 1900, both the regiment and the Sixth Fusiliers were on active service during the [[Fenian Raids]] of 1866 and 1870, and the First Regiment was next for duty in [[Montreal]] at the time of the [[Northwest Rebellion]] in 1885, being encamped under arms for a month ready to go to the front. When the first South African contingent was formed as the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, [[The Royal Canadian Regiment]], the First Regiment contributed its quota of officers and men to "E" Company. This contribution earned the [[battle honour]] "South Africa 1899–1900".
During the period from 1859 to 1900, both the regiment and the Sixth Fusiliers were on active service during the [[Fenian Raids]] of 1866 and 1870, and the First Regiment was next for duty in [[Montreal]] at the time of the [[Northwest Rebellion]] in 1885, being encamped under arms for a month ready to go to the front. When the first South African contingent was formed as the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, [[The Royal Canadian Regiment]], the First Regiment contributed its quota of officers and men to "E" Company. This contribution earned the [[battle honour]] "South Africa 1899–1900".<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


===Early 20th century and First World War===
===Early 20th century and First World War===
In 1911, Lieutenant-Colonel J.W. Carson (later [[Major General]] Sir William Carson) was asked to reorganize the regiment, he agreed on the conditions that he be given a free hand in the selection of his officers; that the regiment should be renamed and become a Regiment of [[Foot Guards]] while still preserving its identity as the First Regiment of the Active Militia of Canada; and that it should be provided with an [[Armory (military)|armoury]] of its own. The reorganisation was promulgated in January 1912, when the First Regiment became '''1st Regiment, The Grenadier Guards of Canada''', and in April 1914 took possession of the new armoury and changed its name again to '''1st Regiment Canadian Grenadier Guards'''. It remained the First Regiment (although junior as a regiment of Foot Guards to the [[Governor General's Foot Guards]], raised in 1872 as [[Household Troops]] for the [[Governor-General]]), and was seen to be the Canadian unit of Household Troops for the Sovereign.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


Within a week of the declaration of the [[Great War]], the regiment contributed the first Commanding Officer, 11 officers and 357 Non-commissioned Officers and men to the newly formed "[[The Royal Montreal Regiment]]" (14th Battalion, [[Canadian Expeditionary Force]]). Further contingents were provided to [[Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry]], the [[13th Battalion, CEF|13th Battalion]] ([[Black Watch of Canada|Royal Highlanders of Canada]]), the [[23rd Reserve Battalion, CEF|23rd Battalion (Royal Montreal Regiment)]], 24th Battalion ([[Victoria Rifles of Canada]]), 60th Battalion (VRC), and the 73rd Battalion (RHC) all of the [[Canadian Expeditionary Force|CEF]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>
In 1911, Lieutenant-Colonel J.W. Carson (later [[Major General]] Sir William Carson) was asked to reorganize the regiment, he agreed on the conditions that he be given a free hand in the selection of his officers; that the regiment should be renamed and become a Regiment of [[Foot Guards]] while still preserving its identity as the First Regiment of the Active Militia of Canada; and that it should be provided with an [[Armory (military)|armoury]] of its own. The reorganisation was promulgated in January 1912, when the First Regiment became '''1st Regiment, The Grenadier Guards of Canada''', and in April 1914 took possession of the new armoury and changed its name again to '''1st Regiment Canadian Grenadier Guards'''. It remained the First Regiment (although junior as a regiment of Foot Guards to the [[Governor General's Foot Guards]], raised in 1872 as [[Household Troops]] for the [[Governor-General]]), and was seen to be the Canadian unit of Household Troops for the Sovereign.


Lieutenant-Colonel Meighen returned from overseas command of the 14th Battalion in June 1915 and announced in September that permission finally had been given to raise an overseas battalion of the regiment, the 87th Battalion CEF. Active recruiting began on 23 October, and in seven weeks the battalion was raised and ready for its winter training in barracks at [[Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu]], [[Quebec]]. The battalion was unique in that recruiting had occurred not only in [[Montreal]] but in every province of Canada (rather than the restricted area allocated to other CEF Battalions) - it was a thoroughly representative "Canadian" unit. Use of the title Canadian Grenadier Guards was also different, as the policy had been to not send CEF battalions overseas with their Militia titles; for the Canadian Grenadiers, especial authority was sought from His Excellency The Governor-General, [[Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn|HRH The Duke of Connaught]] who as a [[Grenadier Guards|British Grenadier]] authorised additionally the wearing of Grenadier Guards' badges.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>
Within a week of the declaration of the [[Great War]], the regiment contributed the first Commanding Officer, 11 officers and 357 Non-commissioned Officers and men to the newly formed "[[The Royal Montreal Regiment]]" (14th Battalion, [[Canadian Expeditionary Force]]). Further contingents were provided to [[Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry]], the [[13th Battalion, CEF|13th Battalion]] ([[Black Watch of Canada|Royal Highlanders of Canada]]), the [[23rd Reserve Battalion, CEF|23rd Battalion (Royal Montreal Regiment)]], 24th Battalion ([[Victoria Rifles of Canada]]), 60th Battalion (VRC), and the 73rd Battalion (RHC) all of the [[Canadian Expeditionary Force|CEF]].


The 87th Battalion entered France on 12 August 1916 and remained on the continent until 1919. During the War, it earned 17 Honorary Distinctions, and [[Private (rank)|Private]] [[John Francis Young]] was awarded the [[Victoria Cross]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>
Lieutenant-Colonel Meighen returned from overseas command of the 14th Battalion in June 1915 and announced in September that permission finally had been given to raise an overseas battalion of the regiment, the 87th Battalion CEF. Active recruiting began on 23 October, and in seven weeks the battalion was raised and ready for its winter training in barracks at [[Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu]], [[Quebec]]. The battalion was unique in that recruiting had occurred not only in [[Montreal]] but in every province of Canada (rather than the restricted area allocated to other CEF Battalions) - it was a thoroughly representative "Canadian" unit. Use of the title Canadian Grenadier Guards was also different, as the policy had been to not send CEF battalions overseas with their Militia titles; for the Canadian Grenadiers, especial authority was sought from His Excellency The Governor-General, [[Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn|HRH The Duke of Connaught]] who as a [[Grenadier Guards|British Grenadier]] authorised additionally the wearing of Grenadier Guards' badges.


After the [[Battle of Vimy Ridge]] in April 1917, the increasing difficulty of finding replacements for the English-speaking battalions from Montreal became acute. Earlier, the regiment had raised a second CEF battalion, the 245th Bn (CGG), which, although it had moved to [[England]] did not fight as a unit, its personnel being used to support the 87th Bn and the [[1st Canadian Battalion (Ontario Regiment), CEF|1st (Central Ontario) Bn]] of the CEF. Consequently, and to retain the Canadian Grenadiers in the [[Order of Battle]], the decision was made to transfer the remaining personnel of the 60th Bn (VRC) to the 87th Bn. On 22 November 1918, [[George V of the United Kingdom|King George V]] granted the title of "[[Guardsman]]" to Private soldiers of the [[Brigade of Guards]], and this distinction extended to the Canadian Grenadiers.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>
The 87th Battalion entered France on 12 August 1916 and remained on the continent until 1919. During the War, it earned 17 Honorary Distinctions, and [[Private (rank)|Private]] [[John Francis Young]] was awarded the [[Victoria Cross]].

After the [[Battle of Vimy Ridge]] in April 1917, the increasing difficulty of finding replacements for the English-speaking battalions from Montreal became acute. Earlier, the regiment had raised a second CEF battalion, the 245th Bn (CGG), which, although it had moved to [[England]] did not fight as a unit, its personnel being used to support the 87th Bn and the [[1st Canadian Battalion (Ontario Regiment), CEF|1st (Central Ontario) Bn]] of the CEF. Consequently, and to retain the Canadian Grenadiers in the [[Order of Battle]], the decision was made to transfer the remaining personnel of the 60th Bn (VRC) to the 87th Bn. On 22 November 1918, [[George V of the United Kingdom|King George V]] granted the title of "[[Guardsman]]" to Private soldiers of the [[Brigade of Guards]], and this distinction extended to the Canadian Grenadiers.


===Between the wars===
===Between the wars===
On return to Canada in 1919, the 87th Bn was demobilised; its name was perpetuated by the 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards (87th Bn CEF) in 1920. At the same time the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Grenadier Guards (245th Bn CEF) perpetuated the other Great War Battalion of the CEF. With this reorganisation, the regiment lost the ordinal title of "First Regiment", as numerals for all regiments were discarded.
On return to Canada in 1919, the 87th Bn was demobilised; its name was perpetuated by the 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards (87th Bn CEF) in 1920. At the same time the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Grenadier Guards (245th Bn CEF) perpetuated the other Great War Battalion of the CEF. With this reorganisation, the regiment lost the ordinal title of "First Regiment", as numerals for all regiments were discarded.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


The return to peace permitted steps to be taken to enhance the status of the regiment as a Regiment of Foot Guards. In 1924, HRH [[Edward VIII of the United Kingdom|The Prince of Wales]] (later HM [[Edward VIII of the United Kingdom|King Edward VIII]]) became the Colonel-in-Chief, and was able to inspect the regiment during a visit to Canada in 1927. In 1930, HM [[George V of the United Kingdom|King George V]] approved the alliance with the [[Grenadier Guards]], which linkage continues today. In 1932, he approved the use of a Stand of Foot Guard [[Colours]] (presented in 1935), and of Company Colours within the regiment. In 1937, the Brigade of [[Canadian Guards]] was authorized (comprising the [[GGFG]] and the CGG), which brigade trooped in [[Ottawa]] on a number of occasions, not least for HM [[George VI of the United Kingdom|King George VI]] during the Royal Visit in 1939; the Brigade was inspected in England in November 1942 by Major-General Phelan (late of the CGG) who had commanded it in Ottawa in 1935.
The return to peace permitted steps to be taken to enhance the status of the regiment as a Regiment of Foot Guards. In 1924, HRH [[Edward VIII of the United Kingdom|The Prince of Wales]] (later HM [[Edward VIII of the United Kingdom|King Edward VIII]]) became the Colonel-in-Chief, and was able to inspect the regiment during a visit to Canada in 1927. In 1930, HM [[George V of the United Kingdom|King George V]] approved the alliance with the [[Grenadier Guards]], which linkage continues today. In 1932, he approved the use of a Stand of Foot Guard [[Colours]] (presented in 1935), and of Company Colours within the regiment. In 1937, the Brigade of [[Canadian Guards]] was authorized (comprising the [[GGFG]] and the CGG), which brigade trooped in [[Ottawa]] on a number of occasions, not least for HM [[George VI of the United Kingdom|King George VI]] during the Royal Visit in 1939; the Brigade was inspected in England in November 1942 by Major-General Phelan (late of the CGG) who had commanded it in Ottawa in 1935.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


In addition to the continuing linkage with [[McGill University]], a strong linkage grew with the [[St. George's Society of Montreal]]. One of the benevolent Societies, St. George's supported the regiment in a number of ways; in return, the regiment paraded to the Regimental Church ([[Christ Church Cathedral (Montreal)|Christ Church Cathedral]]) on the Sunday closest to St. George's Day at the end of which service the regiment paraded past the President of the Society (often at the gates of McGill University) and then received the Society "At Home". This linkage continued well into the 1960s, and members of the Society are still welcome in the armoury.
In addition to the continuing linkage with [[McGill University]], a strong linkage grew with the [[St. George's Society of Montreal]]. One of the benevolent Societies, St. George's supported the regiment in a number of ways; in return, the regiment paraded to the Regimental Church ([[Christ Church Cathedral (Montreal)|Christ Church Cathedral]]) on the Sunday closest to St. George's Day at the end of which service the regiment paraded past the President of the Society (often at the gates of McGill University) and then received the Society "At Home". This linkage continued well into the 1960s, and members of the Society are still welcome in the armoury.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


===Second World War===
===Second World War===
At the outbreak of the [[Second World War]], the regiment furnished 20 officers and 125 other ranks to other units before its own mobilisation in 1940 when, as 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, it reached full strength in three weeks. It trained first on [[St. Helen's Island]] in Montreal, moved subsequently to Camps [[CFB Borden|Borden]] and [[Valcartier]], garrisoned the [[Halifax citadel]], was stationed in [[Saint John, New Brunswick]], and trained in [[Sussex, New Brunswick]] and [[Debert, Nova Scotia]].
At the outbreak of the [[Second World War]], the regiment furnished 20 officers and 125 other ranks to other units before its own mobilisation in 1940 when, as 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, it reached full strength in three weeks. It trained first on [[St. Helen's Island]] in Montreal, moved subsequently to Camps [[CFB Borden|Borden]] and [[Valcartier]], garrisoned the [[Halifax citadel]], was stationed in [[Saint John, New Brunswick]], and trained in [[Sussex, New Brunswick]] and [[Debert, Nova Scotia]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


On 5 February 1942, the First Battalion became 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment (CGG), a unit of [[4th Canadian (Armoured) Division]] (which included 21st Canadian Armoured Regiment (GGFG)). In September, proudly wearing the black beret of the [[Royal Canadian Armoured Corps|Armoured Corps]], 22 CAR moved to England where it would continue to train in a number of areas until deployed to Normandy on 21 July 1944. From that time until [[VE Day]] on 8 May 1945, 22 CAR fought throughout the battles around [[Falaise, Calvados|Falaise]], the move into [[Belgium]] and the [[Netherlands]] and finally across the [[Rhine]], earning 12 Honorary Distinctions. By this time, 22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (CGG) had been raised for the Pacific Force, but the war in the Pacific ended before it could be deployed overseas. 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment returned to Montreal in February 1946 for demobilization and gave up its tanks.
On 5 February 1942, the First Battalion became 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment (CGG), a unit of [[4th Canadian (Armoured) Division]] (which included 21st Canadian Armoured Regiment (GGFG)). In September, proudly wearing the black beret of the [[Royal Canadian Armoured Corps|Armoured Corps]], 22 CAR moved to England where it would continue to train in a number of areas until deployed to Normandy on 21 July 1944. From that time until [[VE Day]] on 8 May 1945, 22 CAR fought throughout the battles around [[Falaise, Calvados|Falaise]], the move into [[Belgium]] and the [[Netherlands]] and finally across the [[Rhine]], earning 12 Honorary Distinctions. By this time, 22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (CGG) had been raised for the Pacific Force, but the war in the Pacific ended before it could be deployed overseas. 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment returned to Montreal in February 1946 for demobilization and gave up its tanks.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


The Regiment's participation in the Second World War also saw numerous heroic actions by Sergeant [[Moe Hurwitz]], who did not survive the war.
The Regiment's participation in the Second World War also saw numerous heroic actions by Sergeant [[Moe Hurwitz]], who did not survive the war.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


===Post-Second World War===
===Post-Second World War===
On formation of the 1st Battalion, the Home Station Regiment became 2nd Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, which continued through the war the traditional role of the Militia to provide reinforcements to units overseas. Reinforcements were drawn from other units, particularly the Halifax Rifles and Princess Louise's Fusiliers.
On formation of the 1st Battalion, the Home Station Regiment became 2nd Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, which continued through the war the traditional role of the Militia to provide reinforcements to units overseas. Reinforcements were drawn from other units, particularly the Halifax Rifles and Princess Louise's Fusiliers.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


On reorganisation, the Canadian Grenadier Guards resumed its traditional Militia role as a regiment of Foot Guards - many of those who had served overseas continued to serve the regiment in Montreal. The peacetime routine of training, garrison duties and parades was highlighted by the appointment of [[George VI of the United Kingdom|King George VI]] as Colonel-in-Chief, the acceptance of the Honorary Colonelcy by [[Harold Alexander, 1st Earl Alexander of Tunis|FM The Viscount Alexander of Tunis]] (himself a Guardsman), the opening by him of the Regimental Museum as a Memorial to the Fallen in 1950 and the participation by members of the regiment in [[Korea]]. With the formation of the [[Canadian Guards]] (a regular unit of four battalions) in 1953, the regiment became the 6th Battalion, under which title it received a new Stand of Colours from [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|HM Queen Elizabeth]], the Colonel-in-Chief, in 1959 (the first occasion where a Militia unit received a Stand of Colours in Canada from the hand of a reigning Sovereign).
On reorganisation, the Canadian Grenadier Guards resumed its traditional Militia role as a regiment of Foot Guards - many of those who had served overseas continued to serve the regiment in Montreal. The peacetime routine of training, garrison duties and parades was highlighted by the appointment of [[George VI of the United Kingdom|King George VI]] as Colonel-in-Chief, the acceptance of the Honorary Colonelcy by [[Harold Alexander, 1st Earl Alexander of Tunis|FM The Viscount Alexander of Tunis]] (himself a Guardsman), the opening by him of the Regimental Museum as a Memorial to the Fallen in 1950 and the participation by members of the regiment in [[Korea]]. With the formation of the [[Canadian Guards]] (a regular unit of four battalions) in 1953, the regiment became the 6th Battalion, under which title it received a new Stand of Colours from [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|HM Queen Elizabeth]], the Colonel-in-Chief, in 1959 (the first occasion where a Militia unit received a Stand of Colours in Canada from the hand of a reigning Sovereign).<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


Although the responsibility for Public Duties in Ottawa was assumed by the [[Canadian Guards]], the regiment provided individuals for this purpose until the formation of the [[Ceremonial Guard]] in 1969. Since that date, No.2 (CGG) Company has participated in the [[Guard Mounting|Changing of the Guard]] on [[Parliament Hill]] and [[Rideau Hall]] during the summer months. As a result, the City of Ottawa granted its [[Freedom of the City|Freedom]] to the regiment in 1979; a similar grant was made by Montreal in 1990 in commemoration of 225 years of service to the City since the formation of 1st Company, District of Montreal Militia in 1764.
Although the responsibility for Public Duties in Ottawa was assumed by the [[Canadian Guards]], the regiment provided individuals for this purpose until the formation of the [[Ceremonial Guard]] in 1969. Since that date, No.2 (CGG) Company has participated in the [[Guard Mounting|Changing of the Guard]] on [[Parliament Hill]] and [[Rideau Hall]] during the summer months. As a result, the City of Ottawa granted its [[Freedom of the City|Freedom]] to the regiment in 1979; a similar grant was made by Montreal in 1990 in commemoration of 225 years of service to the City since the formation of 1st Company, District of Montreal Militia in 1764.<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:CGG Tour.jpg|thumb|Right|Guard on tour. {{puic|CGG Tour.jpg|2009 May 28}}]] -->


Service to Canada and Montreal continues. Members of the regiment participated in aid to civil power at [[Oka Crisis|Oka]] and [[Kahnawake]] in the summer of 1990, and members have served with the [[United Nations Protection Force]] in the former [[Yugoslavia]], as well as with the [[United Nations Disengagement Observer Force]] in the [[Middle East]]. Most recently, members have served with and in support of the [[International Security Assistance Force]] (ISAF) in [[Afghanistan]]; the Canadian name for that mission is [[Operation Athena]].
Service to Canada and Montreal continues. Members of the regiment participated in aid to civil power at [[Oka Crisis|Oka]] and [[Kahnawake]] in the summer of 1990, and members have served with the [[United Nations Protection Force]] in the former [[Yugoslavia]], as well as with the [[United Nations Disengagement Observer Force]] in the [[Middle East]]. Most recently, members have served with and in support of the [[International Security Assistance Force]] (ISAF) in [[Afghanistan]]; the Canadian name for that mission is [[Operation Athena]].<ref>Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders</ref>


==Battle honours==
==Battle honours==
[[File:CGG_Colour.jpg|right|thumb|300px| The regimental colour of The Canadian Grenadier Guards]]The regiment has won 36 battle honours, of which 23 are emblazoned upon the colours (those in '''bold type''' below).

===The War of 1812===
*DEFENCE OF CANADA – 1812–1815<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/news-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=4378 |title=The Creation of the Commemorative Theatre Honour and Honorary Distinction "Defence of Canada – 1812–1815 – Défense du Canada" |date=14 September 2012 |publisher=Department of National Defence |accessdate=17 September 2012}}</ref>
*[[Battle of the Chateauguay|CHÂTEAUGUAY]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/news-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=4389 |title=War of 1812 Battle Honours |date=14 September 2012 |publisher=Department of National Defence |accessdate=17 September 2012}}</ref><ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===South Africa===
*[[South Africa 1899–1900|SOUTH AFRICA, 1899–1900]]<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>

===The Great War===
*'''[[Ypres 1915|YPRES, 1915]], [[Ypres 1917|'17]]'''
*'''[[Festubert 1915|FESTUBERT 1915]]'''
*[[Battle of Mont Sorrel|MOUNT SORREL]]
*'''[[Somme 1916|SOMME 1916]]'''
*[[Battle of Ancre Heights|Ancre Heights]]
*[[Battle of Ancre|Ancre, 1916]]
*'''[[Battle of Arras (1917)|ARRAS, 1917]], [[Battle of Arras (1918)|'18]]'''
*'''[[Battle of Vimy Ridge|Vimy, 1917]]'''
*[[Battle of Hill 70|HILL 70]]
*'''[[Battle of Passchendaele|Passchendaele]]'''
*'''[[Battle of Amiens (1918)|AMIENS]]'''
*[[Battle of the Scarpe (1918)|Scarpe, 1918]]
*'''[[Drocourt-Quéant Line|Drocourt-Quéant]]'''
*[[Hindenburg Line|HINDENBURG LINE]]
*'''[[Battle of the Canal du Nord|Canal du Nord]]'''
*[[Pursuit to the Selle|VALENCIENNES]]
*[[Battle of the Sambre (1918)|SAMBRE]]
*'''[[Western Front (World War I)|FRANCE AND FLANDERS, 1915-18]]'''<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>


===The Second World War===
The regiment has won 36 battle honours, of which 23 are emblazoned upon the colours (those in capital letters below).
*'''[[Battle of Falaise|FALAISE]]'''
*'''[[Falaise_Pocket|Falaise Road]]'''
*'''[[Operation_Tractable|The Laison]]'''
*'''[[Operation_Tractable|Chambois]]'''
*[[Battle of the Scheldt|THE SCHELDT]]
*'''[[Battle of the Scheldt|The Lower Maas]]'''
*'''[[Operation_Veritable|THE RHINELAND]]'''
*'''[[Operation Blockbuster|The Hochwald]]'''
*'''[[Operation Blockbuster|Veen]]'''
*'''[[Western_Allied_invasion_of_Germany|Twente Canal]]'''
*'''[[Western Front (World War II)|NORTH-WEST EUROPE, 1945]]'''<ref>Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.</ref>


===War In Afghanistan===
*War of 1812: [[Battle of the Chateauguay|Châteauguay]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/news-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=4389 |title=War of 1812 Battle Honours |date=14 September 2012 |publisher=Department of National Defence |accessdate=17 September 2012}}</ref> Defence of Canada – 1812–1815<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/news-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=4378 |title=The Creation of the Commemorative Theatre Honour and Honorary Distinction "Defence of Canada – 1812–1815 – Défense du Canada" |date=14 September 2012 |publisher=Department of National Defence |accessdate=17 September 2012}}</ref>
*AFGHANISTAN<ref>{{cite web|title=South-West Asia Theatre Honours|url=http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/05/09/south-west-asia-theatre-honours|publisher=Office of the Prime Minister of Canada|accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref>
*[[South Africa 1899–1900|SOUTH AFRICA, 1899–1900]]
*First World War: [[Ypres 1915|YPRES, 1915]], [[Ypres 1917|'17]], [[Festubert 1915|FESTUBERT 1915]], [[Mount Sorrel]], [[Somme 1916|SOMME 1916]], [[Ancre Heights]], [[Ancre 1916]], [[Arras, 1917|ARRAS, 1917]], [[Arras 1918 (Battle honour)|'18]], [[Vimy 1917|VIMY, 1917]], [[Hill 70]], PASSCHENDAELE, AMIENS, [[Scarpe 1918]], DROCOURT-QUÉANT, [[Hindenburg Line]], CANAL DU NORD, Valenciennes, Sambre, [[France and Flanders 1916–18|FRANCE AND FLANDERS, 1916–18]]
*Second World War: FALAISE, FALAISE ROAD, [[The Laison|THE LAISON]], [[Chambois|CHAMBOIS]], The Scheldt, THE LOWER MAAS, THE RHINELAND, THE HOCHWALD, VEEN, TWENTE CANAL, Bad Zwischenahn, [[North-West Europe 1944-1945|NORTH-WEST EUROPE, 1944–1945]]
*Afghanistan<ref>{{cite web|title=South-West Asia Theatre Honours|url=http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/05/09/south-west-asia-theatre-honours|publisher=Office of the Prime Minister of Canada|accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref>


==Victoria Cross recipients==
==Victoria Cross recipients==
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[[Category:Guards regiments]]
[[Category:Grenadier regiments]]
[[Category:Grenadier regiments]]
[[Category:Quebec Military Units]]

Revision as of 15:23, 21 May 2014

Canadian Grenadier Guards
Cap badge of the Canadian Grenadier Guards
Active1859 - present
CountryCanada
BranchPrimary Reserves
TypeFoot Guards
RoleLight Role
SizeOne battalion
Part ofRoyal Canadian Infantry Corps
Garrison/HQMontreal
Motto(s)Honi soit qui mal y pense[1]
MarchQuick: The British Grenadiers
Slow: Grenadiers Slow March
AnniversariesRegimental birthday: 12 March (1764 onward)
Commanders
Current
commander		LCol M. Canavan, CD
Colonel in ChiefHM The Queen
Colonel of
the Regiment		HE The Governor General of Canada
Insignia
PlumeWhite
Left side of Bearskin cap
AbbreviationCGG
"The British Grenadiers"
"The British Grenadiers", performed here by the United States Army Band Strings ensemble, serves as the authorized march of several British Commonwealth military regiments.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

The Canadian Grenadier Guards (CGG) is the second most senior and oldest infantry regiment in the Reserve Force of the Canadian Armed Forces. Located in Montreal, its primary role is the provision of combat-ready troops in support of Canadian regular infantry. However, as it is also a Household regiment, it performs similar ceremonial duties to the Guards regiments of the British Army, which primarily entails mounting the guard on Parliament Hill and at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, a task it shares with Canada's other Household infantry regiment, the Governor General's Foot Guards. The Canadian Grenadier Guards is an allied regiment to the British Grenadier Guards. (Also see Ceremonial Guard)

LINEAGE

The Canadian Grenadier Guards originated in Montreal, Quebec on 17 November 1859 as the First Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada. It was redesignated as The First (or Prince of Wales's) Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia on 7 September 1860. On 2 May 1898 it amalgamated with the 6th Battalion "Fusiliers" and was redesignated the 1st Battalion "Prince of Wales' Regiment Fusiliers". It was redesignatedas the 1st Regiment "Prince of Wales' Fusiliers" on 8 May 1900; as the 1st Regiment Canadian Grenadier Guards on 29 December 1911; as The Canadian Grenadier Guards on 29 March 1920; as the 2nd (Reserve) Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards on 7 November 1941; as The Canadian Grenadier Guards on 15 February 1946; as The Canadian Grenadier Guards (6th Battalion, The Canadian Guards) on 1 September 1954 before reverting to The Canadian Grenadier Guards on 1 August 1976.[2]

The 6th Battalion "Fusiliers" originated in Montréal, Quebec on 31 January 1862 as the 6th Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles, Canada. It was redesignated as the Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada, or "Hochelaga Light Infantry" on 5 June 1863; as the 6th Battalion "Hochelaga Fusiliers" on 3 December 1875; and finally as the 6th Battalion "Fusiliers" on 28 January 18764 On 2 May 1898, it amalgamated with The First (or Prince of Wales's) Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia.[3]

PERPETUATIONS

The War of 1812

  • 1st Militia Light Infantry Battalion
  • 2nd Battalion, Select Embodied Militia
  • Corps of Canadian Voyageurs
  • Montreal Incorporated Volunteers
  • Montreal Militia Battalion
  • Provincial Commissariat Voyageurs
  • 1st Battalion (City of Montreal) “British Militia”[4]

The Great War

OPERATIONAL HISTORY

The camp flag of The Canadian Greabadier Guards.

===The Fenian Raids===

The First Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia was called out on active service on 8 March 1866 and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 March 1866.[6]

The Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada was called out on active service from 8 to 31 March and from 1 to 22 June 1866 and served on the South-eastern frontier.[7]

The First Regiment of Volunteer Rifles of Canadian Militia was called out on active service on 24 May 1870and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 May 1870.[8]

The Sixth Battalion Volunteer Militia, Canada was called out on active service on 24 May 1870 and served on the South-eastern frontier until it was removed from active service on 31 May 1870.[9]

South African War

The regiment contributed volunteers for the Canadian Contingents during the South African War.[10]

The Great War

Details of the regiment were placed on active service on 6 August 1914 for local protection duties.[11]

The 87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF was authorized on 22 December 1915 and embarked for Britain on 23 April 1916. It disembarked in France on 12 August 1916, where it fought as part of the 11th Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Division in France and Flanders until the end of the war. The battalion was subsequently disbanded on 30 August 1920.[12]

The 245th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards), CEF was authorized on 15 July 1916 and embarked for Britain on 3 May 1917 where it was absorbed by the 23rd Reserve Battalion, CEF on 14 May 1917 to provide reinforcements to the Canadian Corps in the field. The battalion was subsequently disbanded on 17 July 1917.[13]

The Second World War

The regiment mobilized The Canadian Grenadier Guards, CASF on 24 May 1940. It was redesignated as the 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, CASF on 7 November 1940. It was converted to armour and redesignated as the 22nd Armoured Regiment (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), CAC, CASF on 26 January 1942 and as the 22nd Armoured Regiment (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), RCAC, CASF on 2 August 1945. It embarked for Britain on 25 September 1942. On 26 July 1944, it landed in France as part of the 4th Armoured Brigade, 4th Canadian Armoured Division, and it continued to fight in North West Europe until the end of the war. The overseas regiment was disbanded on 15 February 1946.[14]

On 1 June 1945, a second Active Force component of the regiment was mobilized for service in the Pacific theatre of operations as the 22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), CAC, CASF6 It was redesignated as the 22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (The Canadian Grenadier Guards), RCAC, CASF and was disbanded on 1 November 1945.[15]

War In Afghanistan

The regiment contributed volunteers for the Canadian task forces Contingents during the War in Afghanistan.

History

Predecessor and Perpetuated Units

The history of the Canadian Grenadier Guards parallels in many ways the evolution of Canada as a nation, beginning in the early days after the Treaty of Paris in 1763.[16]

On 12 March 1764, Colonel Frederick Haldimand ordered, from Trois-Rivières, Quebec, the formation of a volunteer unit to aid in the defence of Canada. In response, the 1st Company, District of Montreal Militia was raised, under the command of Captain de Montizambert; the company was drawn from the traditional Militia of the Ancien Régime, and was predominantly French-speaking. This company was raised in status to a battalion in 1807, becoming the 1st Battalion, Montreal Militia under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel The Honourable James McGill, founder of McGill University. Elements of the 1st Battalion fought at the Battle of Chateauguay (26 October 1813) under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Charles de Salaberry; as a result of their conduct, the 1st Battalion was awarded a pair of Colours after recommendation by the Commander-in-Chief, Sir George Prevost, to the Prince Regent.[17]

Members of the Canadian Grenadier Guards on parade in Ottawa, Ontario
Canadian Grenadier Guards on memorial duty in Ottawa, Ontario
Canadian Grenadier Guards training in the United Kingdom
Canadian Grenadier Guards in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Canadian Grenadier Guards in Florida, 2008
Canadian Grenadier Guards in Kandahar, Afghanistan
Guards pose with their regiment's flag in Camp Nathan Smith, Kandahar, Afghanistan
Guards in Afghanistan; Afghani children look on
Guards in Afghanistan, in front of an RG-31 Nyala armoured personnel carrier

The Select Embodied Militia continued to exist after the War of 1812, being called upon next during the Rebellion of 1837. Various units existed as Montreal Rifles, Loyal Montreal Volunteers and later Montreal Volunteer Rifles. With the passage of the Militia Act in 1859, the Montreal Rifles (and other independent companies) became the First Battalion, Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada on 17 November 1859, the first "Volunteer Militia" battalion to be formed in the British Empire. In 1860, the unit was raised to regimental status by The Prince of Wales with the title of First or "Prince of Wales" Regiment, Volunteer Rifles of the Canadian Milita; its regimental status was unique within the Canadian Militia, highlighted by the Regimental motto Nulli Secundus and its designation as the First Regiment. The Prince of Wales became the Honorary Colonel, an appointment he continued to hold after his coronation as King Edward VII in 1902.[18]

In addition to those directly antecedent to the First Regiment, the 6th Battalion, Volunteer Militia, was raised in 1862, which later became the 6th Battalion Hochelaga Light Infantry and subsequently the 6th Battalion Fusiliers. In 1898, this Battalion disbanded and absorbed into the First Regiment to become the 1st Battalion Prince of Wales Regiment Fusiliers, which then became the 1st Regiment, Prince of Wales' Fusiliers in 1900. Lieutenant-Colonel J.H. Burland, last Commanding Officer of the Sixth Fusiliers, became the first Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel in 1904.[19]

During the period from 1859 to 1900, both the regiment and the Sixth Fusiliers were on active service during the Fenian Raids of 1866 and 1870, and the First Regiment was next for duty in Montreal at the time of the Northwest Rebellion in 1885, being encamped under arms for a month ready to go to the front. When the first South African contingent was formed as the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, the First Regiment contributed its quota of officers and men to "E" Company. This contribution earned the battle honour "South Africa 1899–1900".[20]

Early 20th century and First World War

In 1911, Lieutenant-Colonel J.W. Carson (later Major General Sir William Carson) was asked to reorganize the regiment, he agreed on the conditions that he be given a free hand in the selection of his officers; that the regiment should be renamed and become a Regiment of Foot Guards while still preserving its identity as the First Regiment of the Active Militia of Canada; and that it should be provided with an armoury of its own. The reorganisation was promulgated in January 1912, when the First Regiment became 1st Regiment, The Grenadier Guards of Canada, and in April 1914 took possession of the new armoury and changed its name again to 1st Regiment Canadian Grenadier Guards. It remained the First Regiment (although junior as a regiment of Foot Guards to the Governor General's Foot Guards, raised in 1872 as Household Troops for the Governor-General), and was seen to be the Canadian unit of Household Troops for the Sovereign.[21]

Within a week of the declaration of the Great War, the regiment contributed the first Commanding Officer, 11 officers and 357 Non-commissioned Officers and men to the newly formed "The Royal Montreal Regiment" (14th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force). Further contingents were provided to Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, the 13th Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada), the 23rd Battalion (Royal Montreal Regiment), 24th Battalion (Victoria Rifles of Canada), 60th Battalion (VRC), and the 73rd Battalion (RHC) all of the CEF.[22]

Lieutenant-Colonel Meighen returned from overseas command of the 14th Battalion in June 1915 and announced in September that permission finally had been given to raise an overseas battalion of the regiment, the 87th Battalion CEF. Active recruiting began on 23 October, and in seven weeks the battalion was raised and ready for its winter training in barracks at Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. The battalion was unique in that recruiting had occurred not only in Montreal but in every province of Canada (rather than the restricted area allocated to other CEF Battalions) - it was a thoroughly representative "Canadian" unit. Use of the title Canadian Grenadier Guards was also different, as the policy had been to not send CEF battalions overseas with their Militia titles; for the Canadian Grenadiers, especial authority was sought from His Excellency The Governor-General, HRH The Duke of Connaught who as a British Grenadier authorised additionally the wearing of Grenadier Guards' badges.[23]

The 87th Battalion entered France on 12 August 1916 and remained on the continent until 1919. During the War, it earned 17 Honorary Distinctions, and Private John Francis Young was awarded the Victoria Cross.[24]

After the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917, the increasing difficulty of finding replacements for the English-speaking battalions from Montreal became acute. Earlier, the regiment had raised a second CEF battalion, the 245th Bn (CGG), which, although it had moved to England did not fight as a unit, its personnel being used to support the 87th Bn and the 1st (Central Ontario) Bn of the CEF. Consequently, and to retain the Canadian Grenadiers in the Order of Battle, the decision was made to transfer the remaining personnel of the 60th Bn (VRC) to the 87th Bn. On 22 November 1918, King George V granted the title of "Guardsman" to Private soldiers of the Brigade of Guards, and this distinction extended to the Canadian Grenadiers.[25]

Between the wars

On return to Canada in 1919, the 87th Bn was demobilised; its name was perpetuated by the 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards (87th Bn CEF) in 1920. At the same time the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Grenadier Guards (245th Bn CEF) perpetuated the other Great War Battalion of the CEF. With this reorganisation, the regiment lost the ordinal title of "First Regiment", as numerals for all regiments were discarded.[26]

The return to peace permitted steps to be taken to enhance the status of the regiment as a Regiment of Foot Guards. In 1924, HRH The Prince of Wales (later HM King Edward VIII) became the Colonel-in-Chief, and was able to inspect the regiment during a visit to Canada in 1927. In 1930, HM King George V approved the alliance with the Grenadier Guards, which linkage continues today. In 1932, he approved the use of a Stand of Foot Guard Colours (presented in 1935), and of Company Colours within the regiment. In 1937, the Brigade of Canadian Guards was authorized (comprising the GGFG and the CGG), which brigade trooped in Ottawa on a number of occasions, not least for HM King George VI during the Royal Visit in 1939; the Brigade was inspected in England in November 1942 by Major-General Phelan (late of the CGG) who had commanded it in Ottawa in 1935.[27]

In addition to the continuing linkage with McGill University, a strong linkage grew with the St. George's Society of Montreal. One of the benevolent Societies, St. George's supported the regiment in a number of ways; in return, the regiment paraded to the Regimental Church (Christ Church Cathedral) on the Sunday closest to St. George's Day at the end of which service the regiment paraded past the President of the Society (often at the gates of McGill University) and then received the Society "At Home". This linkage continued well into the 1960s, and members of the Society are still welcome in the armoury.[28]

Second World War

At the outbreak of the Second World War, the regiment furnished 20 officers and 125 other ranks to other units before its own mobilisation in 1940 when, as 1st Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, it reached full strength in three weeks. It trained first on St. Helen's Island in Montreal, moved subsequently to Camps Borden and Valcartier, garrisoned the Halifax citadel, was stationed in Saint John, New Brunswick, and trained in Sussex, New Brunswick and Debert, Nova Scotia.[29]

On 5 February 1942, the First Battalion became 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment (CGG), a unit of 4th Canadian (Armoured) Division (which included 21st Canadian Armoured Regiment (GGFG)). In September, proudly wearing the black beret of the Armoured Corps, 22 CAR moved to England where it would continue to train in a number of areas until deployed to Normandy on 21 July 1944. From that time until VE Day on 8 May 1945, 22 CAR fought throughout the battles around Falaise, the move into Belgium and the Netherlands and finally across the Rhine, earning 12 Honorary Distinctions. By this time, 22nd Canadian Tank Battalion (CGG) had been raised for the Pacific Force, but the war in the Pacific ended before it could be deployed overseas. 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment returned to Montreal in February 1946 for demobilization and gave up its tanks.[30]

The Regiment's participation in the Second World War also saw numerous heroic actions by Sergeant Moe Hurwitz, who did not survive the war.[31]

Post-Second World War

On formation of the 1st Battalion, the Home Station Regiment became 2nd Battalion, The Canadian Grenadier Guards, which continued through the war the traditional role of the Militia to provide reinforcements to units overseas. Reinforcements were drawn from other units, particularly the Halifax Rifles and Princess Louise's Fusiliers.[32]

On reorganisation, the Canadian Grenadier Guards resumed its traditional Militia role as a regiment of Foot Guards - many of those who had served overseas continued to serve the regiment in Montreal. The peacetime routine of training, garrison duties and parades was highlighted by the appointment of King George VI as Colonel-in-Chief, the acceptance of the Honorary Colonelcy by FM The Viscount Alexander of Tunis (himself a Guardsman), the opening by him of the Regimental Museum as a Memorial to the Fallen in 1950 and the participation by members of the regiment in Korea. With the formation of the Canadian Guards (a regular unit of four battalions) in 1953, the regiment became the 6th Battalion, under which title it received a new Stand of Colours from HM Queen Elizabeth, the Colonel-in-Chief, in 1959 (the first occasion where a Militia unit received a Stand of Colours in Canada from the hand of a reigning Sovereign).[33]

Although the responsibility for Public Duties in Ottawa was assumed by the Canadian Guards, the regiment provided individuals for this purpose until the formation of the Ceremonial Guard in 1969. Since that date, No.2 (CGG) Company has participated in the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill and Rideau Hall during the summer months. As a result, the City of Ottawa granted its Freedom to the regiment in 1979; a similar grant was made by Montreal in 1990 in commemoration of 225 years of service to the City since the formation of 1st Company, District of Montreal Militia in 1764.[34]

Service to Canada and Montreal continues. Members of the regiment participated in aid to civil power at Oka and Kahnawake in the summer of 1990, and members have served with the United Nations Protection Force in the former Yugoslavia, as well as with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in the Middle East. Most recently, members have served with and in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan; the Canadian name for that mission is Operation Athena.[35]

Battle honours

The regimental colour of The Canadian Grenadier Guards

The regiment has won 36 battle honours, of which 23 are emblazoned upon the colours (those in bold type below).

The War of 1812

South Africa

The Great War

The Second World War

War In Afghanistan

Victoria Cross recipients

87th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force
Dury-Arras Sector
2 September 1918

Memorials

A M4 tank at Connaught Range and Primary Training Centre in Ottawa, Ontario was dedicated by the 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment (Canadian Grenadier Guards) to the memory of its soldiers who fought in Northwest Europe from 1944 to 1945. [43]

Order of precedence

See also: Canadian Forces Order of Precedence
Preceded by The Canadian Grenadier Guards Succeeded by

Alliances

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Canadian Grenadier Guards.

References

  1. ^ "National Defence Website". National Defence. 7 March 2012. Retrieved 7 November 2012.
  2. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  3. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  4. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  5. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  6. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  7. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  8. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  9. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  10. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  11. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  12. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  13. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  14. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  15. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  16. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  17. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  18. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  19. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  20. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  21. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  22. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  23. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  24. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  25. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  26. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  27. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  28. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  29. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  30. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  31. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  32. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  33. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  34. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  35. ^ Annex A, The Canadian Grenadier Guards' Regimental Standing Orders
  36. ^ "The Creation of the Commemorative Theatre Honour and Honorary Distinction "Defence of Canada – 1812–1815 – Défense du Canada"". Department of National Defence. 14 September 2012. Retrieved 17 September 2012.
  37. ^ "War of 1812 Battle Honours". Department of National Defence. 14 September 2012. Retrieved 17 September 2012.
  38. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  39. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  40. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  41. ^ Canadian Forces Publication A-DH-267-003 Insignia and Lineages of the Canadian Forces. Volume 3: Combat Arms Regiments.
  42. ^ "South-West Asia Theatre Honours". Office of the Prime Minister of Canada. Retrieved 11 May 2014.
  43. ^ "M4 tank". National Inventory of Canadian Military Memorials. Canadian Department of National Defence. 2008-04-16. Retrieved 20 May 2014.

Secondary sources

  • Regimental Standing Orders of the Canadian Grenadier Guards. Annex A. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |nopp= ignored (|no-pp= suggested) (help)
  • Duguid, A. Fortescue (Colonel) (1965). History of the Canadian Grenadier Guards, 1760 - 1964. Montreal, Quebec, Canada: Gazette Printing Company Limited.
  • Ducimus, The Regiments of the Canadian Infantry. St. Hubert, Quebec, Canada: Mobile Command Headquarters, Canadian Armed Forces. 1992. p. 248p. ISBN 0-9696421-0-5.
  • "A brief outline of the story of the Canadian Grenadier Guards and the first months of the Royal Montreal Regiment in the Great War; told in an anthology of verse and prose." (Montreal, Gazette Print. Co., 1926)
Site Date(s) Designated Location Description Image
Canadian Grenadier Guards’ Armoury 4171 Esplanade Avenue 1913-14 Canada's Register of Historic Places; Recognized - 1994 Register of the Government of Canada Heritage Buildings Montreal, Quebec large, two-storey, brick drill hall with a low-pitched gable roof on a residential streetscape in Montreal.
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