New Colours presented to 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment
News Release
June 29, 2016 – Corner Brook, Newfoundland – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
New Colours were received today by 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment during a ceremony at Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland. The presentation was made by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, who is also the Colonel-in-Chief of the Regiment.
In a separate commemorative event, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, also unveiled a replica “Danger Tree,” an important symbol commemorating the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel, which occurred on July 1, 1916, the first engagement in the 141-day Battle of the Somme. Regimental Colours are consecrated flags and symbolize loyalty to the Crown, to the nation, and to the military unit in which a soldier serves. Displayed on the Colours are the battle honours of the unit, which represent its most important achievements.
Quotes
“The Royal Newfoundland Regiment continues to provide a significant contribution to the Canadian Armed Forces and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Soldiers from the Regiment serve in a number of areas across the Canadian Army and have distinguished themselves, both at home and abroad. I am especially proud that the 2nd Battalion is receiving this remarkable honour, which will serve as a reminder to future generations of the sacrifice and service of these proud Newfoundlanders.”
Brigadier General C.J. Turenne, Commander, 5th Canadian Division
“The sacrifice made by the soldiers of The Royal Newfoundland Regiment during the First World War affected every household in the province. I am extremely happy that we will be presented with new Colours by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, during this significant historical anniversary year, in commemoration of those achievements and of our Regiment’s continued service and sacrifice.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Bond, Commanding Officer, 2nd Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment.
Quick Facts
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The Royal Newfoundland Regiment is one of the most storied regiments in the Canadian Armed Forces and traces its heritage back to the War of 1812.
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The new Colours will contain three additional Battle Honours earned by The Royal Newfoundland Regiment in the War of 1812.
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“Colours” is a general term for a consecrated ceremonial flag carried by designated Canadian Armed Forces combatant formations and units, including Standards.
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July 1st, 2016 will mark the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel, where The Royal Newfoundland Regiment suffered 90 percent casualties on the first day. This battle became an enduring symbol of the valour of Newfoundland soldiers.
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The “Danger Tree” was a gathering point on the exposed battlefield for the soldiers of The Royal Newfoundland Regiment during the battle of Beaumont-Hamel. It became a symbol of the massive, tragic losses suffered by the Regiment.
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HRH Princess Anne hands the newly consecrated Colours to the escort officer.
The 2nd Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment (R Nfld R) received new Colours from Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, during a ceremony at Memorial University in Corner Brook, Newfoundland on June 29, 2016. A monument consisting of a metal statue of the "Danger Tree"; an important symbol commemorating the Battle of Beaumont Hamel, was also unveiled by HRH the Princess Royal, on the University grounds just prior to the ceremony. The R Nfld R is one of the oldest and most storied regiments in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) tracing its history back to the War of 1812.
Photo: Cpl Daniel Salisbury, 14 Wing Imaging
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