Recognizing our Shared Heritage with New Brunswickers
October 15, 2024 - Defence Stories
By Captain Brennen deCarufel, OpsO Royal New Brunswick Regiment (Carleton & York)
Caption
The Royal New Brunswick Regiment (Carleton & York) colour party, lowering the colours as they march past The Honourable Brenda L. Murphy, ONB, Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick and representative of the sovereign while other dignitaries and community members look on during the Presentation of Colours on October 5, 2024 in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
Photo: Corporal Brian Watters, 5th Canadian Division Public Affairs
On October 5th, 2024, The Royal New Brunswick Regiment (Carleton & York) - (RNBR) received its new Colours fromThe Honourable Brenda L. Murphy, ONB, Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick, on behalf of the sovereign adding two battle honours for the Defence of Canada during the War of 1812 and one for service in Afghanistan. This occasion served as a poignant reminder of the legacy we carry forward, steeped in both our New Brunswick heritage and global conflict.
As I held the new King's Colour as the first-time bearer, I felt a deep reverence—not only for the fabric in my hands but for the generations of soldiers who had carried Colours before me. The Colours have always united soldiers on the battlefield, inspiring courage amid chaos. While the battlefield may look different today, the purpose of our colours remains unchanged: they embody our commitment to something greater than ourselves.
As The Honourable Brenda L. Murphy stated, "In meeting New Brunswickers who serve and getting a better understanding of the role they play in our communities and abroad, I've gained a much deeper appreciation for everything you do to defend our freedoms." The achievements of the RNBR, spanning over 250 years, form an essential part of our shared heritage. She added, "SPEM REDUXIT – Hope Restored (the regiment's motto), The Royal New Brunswick Regiment has restored hope, freedom, and peace wherever its members have been deployed." From the War of 1812 to Afghanistan, the RNBR has played a crucial role in many conflicts. As we remember battles like Ypres and Vimy, we honor the sacrifices made by New Brunswickers who risked everything for our freedoms.
Lieutenant-Colonel Marc Cote of the RNBR emphasized, "We are not simply a unit lodged here full of people posted here. Instead, our connections to the community are strong and real."
Caption
The Honourable Brenda L. Murphy, ONB, Lieutnenant Governor of New Brunswick inspects the troops during the The Royal New Brunswick regiment (Carleton & York) Presentation of Colours ceremony on October 5, 2024 in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
Photo: Corporal Brian Watters, 5th Canadian Division Public Affairs
The Change of Colours is more than a ceremonial passing of flags; it is a reminder of the enduring values of tradition and service. While the tools of warfare may evolve, the call to serve remains timeless. As soldiers, we are custodians of a legacy built on sacrifice and honour.
Tradition is not about resisting change but understanding the foundation of our service. As we honour our past, we embrace the responsibility to carry this legacy into the future. We are entrusted with more than just the Colours; we bear the commitment to uphold the values they represent.
In reaffirming our dedication to a cause greater than ourselves, we ensure that tradition and service remain at the heart of everything we do. Let us carry forward the spirit of those who came before us, honoring their sacrifices while striving to build a future grounded in hope and resilience.