The Royal Rifles of Canada
Early History.—Organized 28th February, 1862 (during a period of
Anglo-American tension resulting from the American Civil War), as The 8th
Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles, redesignated next month as 8th or Stadacona
Volunteer Militia Rifles. Designation 8th Battalion Royal Rifles adopted
April, 1877; present title akpted
1st April, 1920.
The Regiment was called out for protective duty, 26th August, 1939.
It was mobilized, July, 1940; served in Newfoundland, November 1940—September
1941. Sailed for Hong Kong, with other Canadian troops, 27th October, 1941.
Japanese attacked 8th December, 1941; Regiment took part in defence of
the colony until garrison overwhelmed, 25th December. Fatal casualties
of Royal Rifles of Canada, 130 all ranks. New battalion formed, January,
1942; it served in British Columbia until dispatched overseas at beginning
of 1945. In England it became No. 9 Canadian Infantry Training Battalion.
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