Regimental histories are a virtual window to a nation. They provide insight
into a country’s culture, values, and martial spirit. But more specifically they
tell the story of the men and women who fight their nation’s wars. Created as
an infantry school corps to train the Militia, the Royal Canadian Regiment
quickly grew to serve the national interest at home and abroad. From its first
operational mission in Canada’s rugged Northwest to assist in quelling the
Riel Rebellion to the harsh veldt of South Africa to help defeat the Boers,
Canada’s oldest permanent force infantry regiment produced a legacy of
courage and professionalism. This proud history was continued in the furnace
of both world wars in Europe and shortly thereafter in Korea. It becomes
evident that in its first 70 turbulent years of existence, the Royal Canadian
Regiment established a heritage of honour and service to Canada, paid for in
the blood, bravery, and tenacity of its members.