Governor General of Canada Presents New Colours to Canadian Army Reserve Unit
News Release
May 20, 2016 – Owen Sound, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, His Excellency, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, presented to The Grey and Simcoe Foresters their new Regimental Colours, in a ceremony in Owen Sound, held during the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Regiment.
The Regimental Colours are the embodiment and the visual symbol of loyalty to the Crown, to the nation, and to the military unit in which one serves. Displayed on the colours are the battle honours of the unit, which represent its most glorious achievements.
Quotes
“Every soldier enlists eager to fulfill their duty with the Canadian Armed Forces. Their devotion is an example to us all. And so it is with great pride and confidence that I present these colours to the Grey and Simcoe Foresters Regiment. May they long be a symbol of the depth of Canada’s commitment to the common good.”
The Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada
“Colours have been described as the soul of a regiment, and the presentation of new Colours confirms a sacred trust between a regiment, the nation, and the Crown. My own pride in The Grey and Simcoe Foresters on this day can only reflect that which must be felt by every serving and past member of that proud regiment as they receive new Colours.”
Colonel Kevin Bertoia, Commander 31 Canadian Brigade Group
“This is, for most of us, a once-in-a-lifetime event. A regiment’s Colours are usually replaced only every 25 to 35 years. For us they represent our heritage, our traditions, and our loyalty to Canada.”
Lieutenant Colonel Shane McArthur, Commanding Officer, The Grey and Simcoe Foresters
Quick Facts
-
Every line infantry unit of the Canadian Armed Forces has two Colours: A Queen’s Colour based on the national flag, and a Regimental Colour bearing the unit cap badge and the battle honours which it has earned since its inception.
-
The new Regimental Colour being presented in Owen Sound is of Lincoln green, befitting the Foresters’ name and heritage, and will bear two new battle honours: “Hill 70”, from the First World War, and “Afghanistan”, recognizing the service of Foresters who took part in that conflict.
-
The Regiment is also celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, as the two founding units, The Simcoe Foresters and the Grey Regiment, were each formed in 1866 from existing militia companies in those two counties.
-
During the First World War (1914-1918), four battalions were raised in Grey and Simcoe counties for overseas service with the Canadian Expeditionary Force. These battalions are today perpetuated by The Grey and Simcoe Foresters.
-
The regiment’s soldiers are part-time reserve members of the Canadian Armed Forces and train at armouries in Owen Sound and in Barrie.
- 30 -
Associated Links
Canadian Army Links
Contacts
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
Search for related information by keyword