The Prince Edward Island Highlanders

The Prince Edward Island Highlanders was an infantry regiment of the Canadian Army.

The Prince Edward Island Highlanders
Active1875–1946
Country Canada
BranchCanadian Militia
TypeLine Infantry
RoleInfantry
SizeOne battalion
Part ofRoyal Canadian Infantry Corps
Garrison/HQCharlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Motto(s)Semper Fidelis
ColorsFacing colour blue
MarchQuick – Highland Laddie
Insignia
TartanGovernment

History

Founded in 1875 as the Queen's County Provisional Battalion of Infantry, it went through several name changes, being renamed the Queen's County Battalion of Infantry in 1876, the 82nd Queen's County Battalion of Infantry in 1879, the 82nd Abegweit Light Infantry in 1906, and The Prince Edward Island Regiment in 1920. It acquired its final title in 1927.[1][2] 'Abegweit' is a Mi'kmaq word translating to 'cradled on the waves' as a reference to Prince Edward Island.

Parts of the regiment were placed on active service on 1 Sep 1939 for local protective duty and 1st Battalion was mobilized on 1 January 1941. The unit served in Newfoundland from 1941 to 1943. From 1943 to 1945, the 1st Battalion, Prince Edward Island Highlanders served as part of the 15th Canadian Infantry Brigade Group, 6th Canadian Infantry Division in the home defence role of the west coast of Canada.[1] [3] In early 1945 after the need for home defence was not as great, the battalion embarked for the United Kingdom where it was disbanded shortly after arrival to provide reinforcements in the field to the First Canadian Army.[1] [3] A reserve battalion remained on Prince Edward Island.[1]

The regiment was amalgamated with the Prince Edward Island Light Horse in 1946 and renamed The Prince Edward Island Regiment in 1949.[1][2]

Perpetuations

Alliances and Uniform

The Prince Edward Island Highlanders were allied to the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) and were kitted as Black Watch except for badges. Officers wore grey Balmorals in Service Dress and Battle Dress.

Battle honours

South African War

The Great War

References

  • Barnes, RM, The Uniforms and History of the Scottish Regiments, London, Sphere Books Limited, 1972.
  1. Defence, National (2018-11-29). "The Prince Edward Island Regiment (RCAC)". www.canada.ca. Retrieved 2021-12-05.
  2. "Guide to Sources Relating to the Canadian Militia (Infantry, Cavalry, Armored)" (PDF).
  3. "www.canadiansoldiers.com". www.canadiansoldiers.com. Retrieved 2021-12-08.
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