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81-894: The King's Own Calgary Regiment (RCAC) , colloquially known as The King's Own, is a Royal Canadian Armoured Corps cavalry regiment of the Canadian Armed Forces. Headquartered at Mewata Armoury in Calgary, Alberta, the King's Own is a part-time Primary Reserve unit of 41 Canadian Brigade Group, 3rd Canadian Division. Its regimental museum is located at the Military Museums in southwest Calgary. Role The King's Own conducts tactical and technical training for armoured crewmen and officers, in preparation for expeditionary deployments overseas and in support of Canadians at home through domestic operations. These deployment are often in

162-648: A Tudor / Gothic Revival style. A classic example of armoury design, Mewata has features deliberately bringing to mind a medieval fortress or castle, including four square corner towers, four smaller six sided towers, and buttresses with turrets and a crenellated roofline. The original design featured a large central drill hall with 117 rooms (two storeys of soldiers quarters) arranged around its perimeter. The basement included bowling alleys and 30 yard shooting ranges. The facility also included officers' and sergeants' billiard rooms. Barracks have been altered in recent years to serve as offices and storage space. A catwalk around

243-697: A C-19 Grenade Launcher and a C6 Machine Gun. At the 2018 Soldiers Christmas Dinner, “Calgary” the first TAPV named by the regiment, was unveiled by the Mayor of Calgary, Naheed Nenshi . Members of the regiment continued the proud military tradition of the unit by volunteering for United Nations and NATO missions augmenting Canadian Armed Forces regular units on peacekeeping duties in Cyprus, Croatia, Bosnia, Congo, Golan Heights, and Darfur. In addition to many soldiers having served on United Nations tours in Cyprus, Croatia, Bosnia, Congo, Golan Heights, and Darfur, members of

324-417: A motion offering the five lots (hospital site) to the federal government free of charge for the construction of a suitable facility, however, the offer did not materialize. When Lieutenant-Colonel E. A. Cruikshank approached City Council again in 1910 for the hospital site, city officials suggested alternative sites. The 1911 Canadian federal election , the previous Liberal government under Wilfrid Laurier

405-730: A recruiting depot to raise battalions for the Canadian Expeditionary Force . The regiment also provided soldiers to man the internment camp at Castle Mountain. These soldiers were also employed full time as part of the Active Militia. A number of reinforcement battalions were commanded by former 103rd Regiment officers, including Lieutenant-Colonel William Charles Gordon Armstrong ( 56th Battalion (Calgary), CEF ) and Lieutenant-Colonel George Morfitt ( 137th (Calgary) Battalion, CEF ). The regiment also supplied soldiers to man internment camps near Castle Mountain and

486-724: A result of the unit's contribution to the War in Afghanistan, The King's Own were awarded the Afghanistan battle honour in 2014, which the regiment now proudly displays on their guidon. In 2017, the regiment added a detachment into the High River area, which currently parades at the High River Regional Airport. The regiment's aim is to eventually grow this detachment into squadron -sized unit. The regiment

567-519: A seven car troop of Ferret Scout Cars on loan from Lord Strathcona's Horse (RC). It was a good solid platform other than jeeps and gave us a real sense of belonging to the Armoured Corps. With the introduction of AVGP Cougar in 1978, The King's Own again had an armoured role. The unit had four Cougar's in Calgary for local training as well as maintaining its fleet of jeeps in a reconnaissance role. The 1967 & 1974 Pattern jeeps were replaced by

648-697: A site near the old hospital building. It is very unsuitable. If Calgary wants a $ 50,000 building it can get it by not providing a decent site. If, on the other hand Mewata Park is available, Calgary will obtain an armory that will be second to none in Western Canada. By 1913 the Mewata Park land had become a civic issue in Calgary, opposed by labour groups which had previously seen the federal government use militia to crush strikes in Cape Breton and Vancouver Island. Calgary Mayor Herbert Arthur Sinnott

729-598: Is also actively recruiting in the Okotoks , and Turner Valley regions. The regiment also assumed operational control of the 41 Canadian Brigade Group Influence Activities Company, composed of civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) and psychological operations (Psyops) trained personnel. Since 2014, the unit has been increasingly training with civilian side-by-side all-terrain platforms, snowmobiles, and all-terrain vehicles, examining their utility during domestic operations and to supplement for rear echelon tasks. On 22 April 2018

810-472: Is the motto of the regiment and the City of Calgary . The King's Own Calgary Regiment (Royal Canadian Armoured Corps) was split off in 1920 from the 103rd Regiment (Calgary Rifles) , which was originally raised on 10 April 1910 at Calgary, Alberta. The regiment was reorganized on 15 March 1920 as two separate regiments, The Alberta Regiment (now The South Alberta Light Horse ) and The Calgary Regiment, as part of

891-665: The 1st Canadian Infantry Division . On 21 November 1943, the regiment supported the 8th Indian Infantry Division in its assault against fierce German opposition on the Sangro River. In December the regiment met stubborn opposition fighting for the Moro River and later Vino Ridge and the Ortona Crossroads. On 11–12 May 1944 the regiment assaulted across the Gari River supporting the 19th Indian Brigade of

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972-408: The 63rd Grey Cup parade, twenty marching bands were marshalled in the drill hall. The building has a cut stone foundation with a structure of red brick (common bond with steel reinforcement) and sandstone. The drill hall is significant for the large uninterrupted span of its steel trusses. A second story on the west side was added some time after original construction. The building was designed in

1053-596: The Cave and Basin in Rocky Mountains Park . Three soldiers of the 103rd Regiment (Calgary Rifles) died while assigned to the camp and are buried in Banff. Details of the 103rd Regiment "Calgary Rifles" were placed on active service on 6 August 1914 for local protection duties. The 103rd contributed men to a number of battalions that became antecedents of The King's Own Calgary Regiments. The King's Own perpetuates

1134-510: The Otter Committee reorganizations. On 15 May 1924, The Calgary Regiment was again reorganized and split into two separate regiments, The Calgary Regiment (now The King's Own Calgary Regiment ) and The Calgary Highlanders . On 15 September 1921, The Calgary Regiment was divided into six battalions. The 1st Battalion became the 1st Battalion, Calgary Highlanders, The Calgary Regiment. The 2nd Battalion, The Calgary Regiment later became

1215-702: The South Alberta Regiment . The Reserve regiment also trained 77 officers and over 1500 men who joined other branches of the military for service overseas. The Calgary Regiment's Second World War record was outstanding. To recognize the contribution the regiment made, King George VI granted the prefix “King's Own” to the regiment's name. Therefore, the regiment was re-designated the '14th Armoured Regiment (King's Own Calgary Regiment)' on 22 July 1946; 'The King's Own Calgary Regiment (14th Armoured Regiment)' on 4 February 1949; and lastly, 'The King's Own Calgary Regiment (RCAC)' on 19 May 1958. Over this period

1296-828: The raid on Dieppe on 19 August 1942 as the first unit of the Canadian Armoured Corps to go into action. The Dieppe Raid will go down in the annals of Canadian Military history as one of the most disastrous days in the history of the Canadian Forces. The name Dieppe echoes stories of defeat and surrender amongst the nearly 5000 soldiers who stormed ashore. Despite this, stories of bravery can be found in almost every area where Canadians fought that day. The 14th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Calgary Regiment) landed at Dieppe in support of The Essex Scottish Regiment (from South-western Ontario) and The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (from Hamilton, Ontario) whose task it

1377-468: The 10th Battalion, and 150 men to the 31st Battalion. On 5 December it sent 100 men to the 49th Battalion. It was amalgamated with the 175th "Overseas" Battalion, CEF to form the '21st Reserve Battalion, CEF on 10 January 1917, to provide reinforcements for the Canadian Corps in the field. The battalion was disbanded on 4 August 1917 by Privy Council Order 1895 of 17 July 1917. For further reading on

1458-498: The 10th Battalion. The battalion was brought back up to full strength of 41 Officers and 1036 other ranks, and embarked for Britain on 27 October 1915 aboard RMS Orduna. The battalion disembarked in France on 11 August 1916, where it fought as part of the 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Division in France and Flanders until the end of the war. The battalion suffered over 4000 casualties. During this period Pte J.G. Pattison won

1539-614: The 137th Bn, read A Legacy of Courage “Calgary's Own” 137th BN CEF by Fred Bagley and Dr. Harvey Duncan. On 1 April 1936, the Calgary Regiment was amalgamated with the 'Headquarters' and 'B Company' of the '13th Machine Gun Battalion, CMGC retaining its designation. It was re-designated: 'The Calgary Regiment (Tank)' on 15 December 1936. On 15 March 1920 the 103rd Calgary Rifles was reorganized as two separate regiments, designated 'The Alberta Regiment' (now 'The South Alberta Light Horse') and 'The Calgary Regiment'. On 1 April 1920

1620-535: The 41 Canadian Brigade Group Influence Activities Company (attached to the King's Own Calgary Regiment) and various cadet organizations. Prior to the construction of the Mewata Armoury, Calgary had minimal military infrastructure in place. A modest two-storey drill hall was opened on 12th Avenue SW in January 1904, the facility was purchased using private funds. In the late 1900s, Calgary City Council passed

1701-591: The 50th, 89th and 137th Battalions CEF. The 50th Battalion Canadian Expeditionary Force , was authorized on 7 November 1914, authorization was published in General Order 86 on 1 July 1915. It was mobilized in Calgary in December 1914 under the command of LCol E.G. Mason, and trained at Sarcee Camp. First draft of 5 Officers and 251 other ranks was sent to England on 14 June 1915. 5 Officers and 250 other ranks embarked 11 September 1915 and became replacements for

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1782-706: The 8th Indian Division to the Arno River through country with remarkably poor tank going. On 25 August 1944 the Calgaries made an assault crossing of the Arno River, east of Florence pushing into the Sieve Valley where the Gothic Line was assaulted in the "Marradi" sector in support of the 1/5 Gurkha Regiment . Another miserably wet Italian winter was spent in the mountains. In late February 1945

1863-581: The 8th Indian Division. During this operation and the advance towards the Hitler Line the regiment sustained casualties numbering 16 officers, 40 other ranks, and 60 tank casualties. An innovative use of a modified Sherman tank to carry a bridge across the Gari River is known as Kingsmill bridge by its inventor Captain T. Kingsmill's moniker. Kingsmill was to receive the Military Cross for

1944-684: The 9th Reserve Battalion 7 October 1916. The battalion was disbanded on 21 May 1917. The 89th Battalion was disbanded Privy Council Order's 1366 and 1863 of 21 May and 6 July 1917. The 137th Overseas Battalion CEF was authorized by General Order 151 on 22 December 1915. It was organized in Calgary under the command of LCol G.W. Morfitt in November 1915. The Battalion embarked for Britain from Halifax on 24 August 1916 on board RMS Olympic. It disembarked in England 29 Aug 1916 with 32 Officers and 936 other ranks. On 28 November 1916 it sent drafts of 100 men to

2025-575: The Active regiment was mobilized, Red Deer could no longer support a squadron. Olds and Red Deer became A Squadron, Stettler became B Squadron, and C Squadron was formed from detachments in Coronation , Consort , Veteran , and Alliance . C Squadron Headquarters was in Alliance. It recruited members for the 1st Battalion CASF Regiment, and drafts to other regiments such as the initial establishment of

2106-543: The Calgary Regiment was reorganized as a five battalion regiment with the 1st Battalion (10th Battalion, CEF) and 2nd Battalion (50th Battalion, CEF) on the Non Permanent Active Militia order of battle and the 3rd Battalion (56th Battalion, CEF), 4th Battalion (82nd Battalion, CEF) and 5th Battalion (137th Battalion, CEF) on the Reserve order of battle (GO 95/21). On 15 May 1924 the Calgary Regiment

2187-656: The Canadian non-permanent militia , was authorized and formed at Calgary , Alberta, Canada, by General Order 38/10. The first commanding officer was Lieutenant-Colonel W.C.G. Armstrong. The regiment was approved to train six companies of 50 men each, and later expanded to eight companies. The unit initially paraded at the former Calgary General Hospital building (today known as the Rundle Ruins) before being ordered to vacate in September 1910. The unit then moved into

2268-579: The City requested the Legislative Assembly pass a private bill for the purpose of enabling the transfer which was overwhelming defeated by the majority Liberal provincial government. Eventually a plebiscite was held alongside the 1913 Calgary municipal election in which the electorate was asked whether to transfer "a small portion of Mewata Park of approximately 90,000 square feet", in which more than 70% of ratepayers voted in favor of transferring

2349-628: The First World War, Mewata was used as an induction and training centre and a demobilization depot for returning soldiers. In addition to military uses, other groups and organizations have always used the armoury including a military ball for the Prince of Wales in 1919, the scene of a verbal confrontation between William Aberhart and Major C. H. Douglas founder of Social Credit . The Calgary Police Service and Calgary Fire Department have often used it for training purposes. In 1975, prior to

2430-654: The Iltis in 1987. The Cougar was withdrawn from service in 2006 and the regiment reverted to reconnaissance. The Iltis was replaced by the Gielenwagon in 2007 and is the current platform. The regiment maintains a fleet 18 of 16 G-Wagons and support vehicles. In 2018 the regiment was allocated 4 Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicles (TAPV) in addition to the G-Wagon fleet. 2 of the TAPV are Remote Weapon System (RWS) vehicles mounting

2511-464: The King's Own Calgary Regiment. The 3rd, 4th and 5th battalions were paper units that were never formed and disbanded in the 1936 reorganizations of the Militia. On 15 May 1924, The Calgary Regiment reorganized as separate regiments. Source: The history of The King's Own Calgary Regiment (RCAC) began on 1 April 1910, when its predecessor the 103rd Regiment (Calgary Rifles) , an infantry regiment of

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2592-902: The Mercedes Benz G-Wagen and Polaris UTV, as well as on support vehicles, such as the Medium Support Vehicle System (MSVS) and militarized Chevrolet Silverado (MILCOTS) and the Light Support Vehicle Wheeled (LSVW).  Selected members have the opportunity to also be trained on the Leopard 2A4 Main Battle Tank (MBT) and the LAV-6. Besides reconnaissance crewman and officers, soldiers of the regiment are also trained as mechanics, CIMIC (Civil-Military Cooperation) operators, musicians (in

2673-574: The Mewata Armouries states: The seale and bold design of the Mewata Armoury exemplify the wave of national pride that greeted Canada’s strong performance in the South African War. In western Canada this military enthusiasm led to a dramatic increase in militia enrolment and resulted in the construction of new drill halls and armouries on an unprecedented scale. Mewata Armoury, one of the largest and most fully equipped of its type,

2754-416: The Mewata Armoury as a Federal Heritage Building under Treasury Board Heritage Buildings Policy. The recognition referenced the structures significance due to its historical associations with the Canadian government's late-19th century initiatives to build and maintain militia practice and training areas in urban locations, the building's role in housing militia and permanent forces during inter-war periods, and

2835-545: The RMS Olympic and disembarked on the 8 June 1916 with 23 Officers and 969 other ranks. In June 1916, drafts were sent to: 167 Men to the Machine Gun Depot; 168 to the 9th Reserve Battalion; and 65 to other units. In August 1916 drafts were sent to: 115 men to 7th Battalion; 150 men to 10th Battalion; and 150 to 31st Battalion. After some further small drafts, its personnel were absorbed by the 97th Battalion and

2916-610: The Regimental Museum, received permission from 41 Canadian Brigade Group to place a vehicle in front of Mewata Armoury, after discussions in the Museum in 1997. This form of homage is common in other armouries and military bases across Canada. Lieutenant King sought out collectors in order to obtain an appropriate vehicle, and negotiations with the Canadian War Museum yielded this fully restored carrier, from

2997-468: The Victoria Cross. The battalion returned to England 27 April 1919, disembarked at Halifax 5 June 1919 and demobilized at Calgary 9 June 1919. The 50th was disbanded by General Order 149 of 15 September 1920. This is the main battalion perpetuated by The King's Own. For further details consult The 50th In No Mans Land by Victor W. Wheelerdge, Pte. John George Pattison of the 50th Battalion CEF

3078-647: The action. At this point Lieutenant-Colonel Neroutsos fell ill, and the regiment was taken over by Lieutenant-Colonel C.A. Richardson. In June 1944 the Calgaries took part in the Battle of Lake Trasimeno in support of the British 4th Division , after which the Calgaries conducted a pursuit up the Chiani Valley until the Lydia Line was reached south of Arezzo . By 3 August 1944, the regiment had advanced with

3159-697: The collection of Jack Guthrie, a notable Calgary vehicle collector. The concrete pad for the carrier was donated by BURNCO and the plaque purchased by the Regimental Funds Foundation through a grant from the Royal Alberta United Services Institute. The markings were researched and painted by Corporal Michael Dorosh, at that time a clerk with battalion headquarters. The plaque was unveiled by Second World War veterans Sergeant Clarence "Ken" Crockett, DCM and Lance Corporal Floyd Rourke, DCM. A second monument

3240-557: The colour white existed as an independent tincture in heraldry separate from argent. He bases this in part on the "white labels " used to differentiate the arms of members of the British royal family . However, it has been argued that these could be regarded as "white labels proper", thus rendering white not a heraldic tincture. The different tinctures are traditionally associated with particular heavenly bodies, precious stones, virtues, and flowers, although these associations have been mostly disregarded by serious heraldists. In addition to

3321-538: The drill hall has been enclosed on the north and south sides, as well as part of the east side, leaving a short "balcony" overlooking the parade square. On November 11, 1979 the Government of Alberta designated the Mewata Armoury a Provincial Historical Resource, referencing the sites historical significance in providing training facilities for the Dominion Government's armed forces following 1900, and

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3402-514: The federal government to transfer the military's old Calgary Rifle Range in exchange for the Mewata land, however despite correspondence from the city to Borden about the trade, Borden did not press the issue in Ottawa. In 1913, Borden wrote the city, pressing the issue of the federal government obtaining the Mewata Park land stating: All Cities are now supplying sites for armories. Calgary offered

3483-572: The form or individual or subunit deployments augmenting the Regular Force. King's Own Crewmen and officers gain expertise on motorized warfare, to include direct attack, reconnaissance, defensive, delay and exploitation tasks, by combining knowledge on armoured warfare, and communication, driving and gunnery skills. Members of the regiment are trained on the Textron Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV),

3564-554: The former drill hall of the Canadian Mounted Rifles on Centre Street and 12th Avenue SE. In 1911 a new armoury was found, in a former German-Canadian club a block south of their former home at the General Hospital. After Mewata Armouries was completed during the First World War, the regiment moved its offices to that location. At the outbreak of World War I the regiment was not mobilized but served as

3645-458: The government." The City of Calgary's land offer valued at approximately $ 100,000, and in June 1912, the federal government approved $ 50,000 for the Calgary project. Mewata Park, originally a federal reserve which was transferred to the City of Calgary as a park in 1906 was chosen for the site. The area was between the city's downtown and growing residential neighbourhoods. Calgary officials expected

3726-477: The land. Bennett later respond to Sinnott and the plebiscite noting the total area provided was approximately 10,000 square feet too small, Bennett proposed a solution where the city transferred the full property as requested and the federal government issued an Order in Council absolving the city of any liability in regards to the letters patent. Construction began September 24, 1915 and according to some sources

3807-478: The loose shale of the beach and blocked the remaining tanks from getting off. Capt. Stanton's tank later managed to advance and fought hard for several hours until the crew were forced to abandon it when the tank caught fire. This Landing Craft (Tank), because of the blocking, withdrew and lay off shore for about an hour and a half. About this time the Colonel ordered Major A. Glenn, O.C. "C" Sqn to take command of all

3888-402: The main beach, the moment it was assaulted. The first wave of tanks of this Regiment got ashore successfully and some of them assaulted the town. Others, however, were not successful in negotiating the sea wall and did not get off the beach and a number of them soon were immobilized. Nevertheless their crews continued to fight their guns engaging enemy positions with good effect. Roads leading into

3969-473: The markings of the 1st Battalion. A plaque dedicates the memorial to all soldiers of the regiment and its predecessors who have "Served Canada in War and Peace." Regimental Markings included a gold maple leaf on Royal Blue, indicating the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division , and a green square indicating the 5th Brigade, upon which was placed the Unit Sign "62" in white. Lieutenant Brian S. King, CD, Curator of

4050-548: The metal silver, Argent is associated with: Mewata Armouries Mewata Armoury is a Canadian Forces reserve armoury in Calgary , Alberta, Canada. Mewata ( / m ə ˈ w ɑː t ə / mə- WAH -tə is derived from the Cree word ᒥᔭᐋᐧᑕᒼ ( miyawâtam ), meaning "Oh, be joyful". The building was built between 1915 and 1918 for an original cost of CA$ 282,051 (equivalent to $ 4,978,676 in 2023). The building

4131-455: The outlying squadrons and troops in Red Deer, Olds, Stettler, Gleichen, Lacombe, Consort, Innisfail, Strathmore, Coronation, Veteran and Alliance were reduced. In 1964 the regiment maintained a fleet of 14 M4A2 Sherman tanks and 6 other “B” Vehicles. The regiment also absorbed members of 91 Battery, 19 Medium Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, when it was disbanded in 1965. By 1969 the regiment

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4212-582: The regiment changed in its structure numerous times including absorbing members of the South Alberta Light Horse (formerly 15 Alberta Light Horse) when it was relocated to Medicine Hat. Part II Orders of June 1963 list the regiment as RHQ, “B” Squadron and Band in Calgary; “A” Squadron in Strathmore and Gleichen; and “C’ Squadron in Red Deer, Innisfail and Olds. Strength of the unit at in 1963 was 31 Officers and 352 men. Starting in 1965,

4293-410: The regiment unveiled the Textron Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV) during the unit anniversary St. George's Day. Argent The name derives from Latin argentum , translated as " silver " or "white metal ". The word argent had the same meaning in Old French blazon , whence it passed into the English language. In some historical depictions of coats of arms , a kind of silver leaf

4374-481: The regiment volunteered on operational tours in Afghanistan. Canada's participation in the War in Afghanistan saw many soldiers from the regiment deploy in a variety of roles throughout the conflict. On 24 September 2007, the King's Own suffered its first combat fatality since the Second World War, when Cpl Nathan Hornburg was killed in action while serving in Kandahar province. Hornburg was posthumously mentioned in dispatches for his exemplary performance in combat. As

4455-426: The regiment was moved to Leghorn and embarked to Marseilles , France, where it moved by rail to the North-West Europe theatre. The regiment moved to the Reichswald Forest and on 12 April 1945 fought in the Second Battle of Arnhem , supporting the 49th (West Riding) Infantry Division to Ede , the Netherlands. The regiment's final actions of the Second World War were in support of the 1st Belgium Brigade in clearing

4536-460: The regiment were called out on service on 26 August 1939 and then placed on active service on 1 September 1939, under the designation 'The Calgary Regiment (Tank), CASF (Details)', for local protection duties. The details called out on active service were disbanded on 31 December 1940. The regiment subsequently mobilized an armour regiment designated the '14th Army Tank Battalion (The Calgary Regiment (Tank)), CAC, CASF' on 11 February 1941. This Regiment

4617-435: The regimental brass and reed band), RMS ( Resource Management Support ) clerks, and storesmen. On a shield Argent a cross Gules surmounted by a maple leaf in autumnal tints charged with a bison statant on a mound, on a chief the local landscape at sunset all proper, the shield ensigned by the Royal Crown, supported dexter by a horse, sinister by a steer, adorned beneath with a rose between shamrocks and thistles all proper,

4698-599: The resistance between the Nederrijn and Waal Rivers. When the overseas unit returned to Canada in 1945, it was disbanded, and the Calgary Regiment continued its service as a reserve armoured unit. The reserve regiment remained in Calgary under LCol Kingsley (King) Jull MC and was designated '14th (Reserve) Army Tank Battalion, (The Calgary Regiment (Tank))' on 1 April 1941; and then '14th (Reserve) Army Tank Regiment, (The Calgary Regiment (Tank))' on 15 August 1942. It consisted of HQ Squadron in Calgary, A Squadron in Red Deer , B Squadron in Stettler , and C Squadron in Olds . Once

4779-423: The road blocks. This made it extremely difficult for the tanks to get into the town at all. Consequently the majority of the tanks fought during the whole of the engagement, up and down the beach and promenade. The Landing Craft (Tank) carrying Regimental Headquarters went into the beach in the 3rd wave under cover of smoke. The leading tank, commanded by Capt. A.G. Stanton, Adjutant, got off at once but bogged down in

4860-541: The site's representation of the third phase of drill hall construction in Canada during 1896 to 1918, the scale and bold design of the armoury following the South African War, and the armoury's role as home of King's Own Calgary Regiment and The Calgary Highlanders. The Mewata Armoury was only the fourth site in Calgary to receive the National Historic Site of Canada designation, following Fort Calgary in 1925, Calgary City Hall in 1984, and Heritage Hall in 1987. The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque at

4941-417: The spring of 1943, Lieutenant-Colonel C.H. Neroutsos took command of the regiment. The new unit went to Sicily in 1943 with the First Canadian Army Tank Brigade, re-equipped with the Sherman tank . On 3 September 1943, the regiment assaulted the beaches of Reggio Calabria to little resistance and moved northwards with notable engagements in Potenza , Motta Montecorvino and Campobasso while supporting

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5022-426: The structure's long-term purpose which did not arise from a specific military emergency. The Minister of Culture Mary LeMessurier and Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-McCall Andy Little announced the Provincial Historical Designation during the Royal Canadian Legion's Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium . On November 14, 1984 the Government of Canada recognized

5103-456: The substantial role the building played in training efforts for the Second World War. Additionally the Tudor Gothic architectural style, and landmark status in downtown Calgary contributed to the building's significance. On June 22, 1989 the Government of Canada designated the structure and area a National Historic Site of Canada under the name "Mewata Drill Hall / Calgary Drill Hall National Historic Site of Canada". The designation referenced

5184-478: The tank and the Colonel was seen to get into an R boat. However, almost immediately this boat was set ablaze and the Colonel was last seen swimming in the water. (His body was never recovered) Capt. B.G. Purdy who was commanding No. 8 Troop of "B" Squadron, specially equipped with flame throwers, attempted to land as planned on the right of the main beach. However for some unknown reason, his tank went off in very deep water and had to be abandoned immediately. Capt. Purdy

5265-465: The tanks then on shore. The Landing Craft (Tank) then went in again this time without the aid of a smoke screen. As it approached the shore with its door partly lowered, the chains supporting the door were blown away and the door dropped under the Landing Craft (Tank) and prevented it from getting any closer to the shore. The colonel's tank at once drove off the ship, tearing a louvre extension and sank into six feet of water and stalled. The crew abandoned

5346-559: The tanks when the boats came in. At this time, as throughout the whole operation, the voices on the air were calm and unhurried. The fire on the beach at this time had grown very fierce and casualties of the withdrawing troops were heavy. Only two members of the total tank crews on shore managed to get away and the remainder were either killed or taken prisoner. Of the men of the regiment that went ashore 13 were killed, including Lieutenant Colonel J. G. Andrews (the Commanding Officer), and Captain D. G. Purdy, 4 were wounded, 157 taken prisoner. In

5427-442: The town were very solidly blocked and in order that the tanks might successfully penetrate into the town it was essential that these be removed. The engineers were carrying large quantities of selected explosives for this purpose. Unfortunately, however, the heavy fire which the enemy was still able to bring to bear on the beach caused heavy casualties amongst the sappers. Despite great courage and determination they were unable to clear

5508-426: The whole set upon three scrolls Or , the upper one inscribed with the motto ONWARD and the two below inscribed KING'S OWN CALGARY REGIMENT in letters Azure. The Crown represents service to the Sovereign. The badge, incorporates the shield, the horse, the steer and the roses, thistles, and shamrocks, as adopted by the City of Calgary in 1902. "KING'S OWN CALGARY REGIMENT" is a form of the regimental title and "ONWARD"

5589-500: Was again reorganized as two separate regiments, designated 'The Calgary Highlanders' and 'The Calgary Regiment' Upon further reorganization, the Calgary Regiment was organized as a three battalion regiment with the 1st Battalion (50th Battalion, CEF) on the Non Permanent Active Militia order of battle and the 2nd Battalion (89th Battalion, CEF) and 3 rd Battalion (137th Battalion, CEF) on the Reserve order of battle. The reserve units were disbanded on 14 December 1936 (GO 3/37). Details from

5670-547: Was applied to those parts of the device that were argent. Over time, the silver content of these depictions has tarnished and darkened. As a result, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish regions that were intended as "argent" from those that were " sable ". This leaves a false impression that the rule of tincture has been violated in cases where, when applied next to a dark colour, argent now appears to be sable due to tarnish . Arthur Charles Fox-Davies argued in his book The Art of Heraldry that, though extremely rare,

5751-427: Was assisted in the water by his operator, Tpr. Aide and it is believed both were wounded. Tpr. Aide had finally to let go and Capt. Purdy was last seen being carried away by the current. (Tpr Aide was one of the two who managed to return) All tanks which got ashore fought very hard until either out of action or out of ammunition. At about 1225 hours, Major Glenn ordered all personnel to the beach and to be ready to abandon

5832-543: Was awarded the Empire's highest award for gallantry, the Victoria Cross , for his heroic actions on 10 April 1917, storming a German machine-gun nest. The 89th Battalion , which was authorized by General Order 151 on 22 December 1915 as the “89th Overseas Battalion CEF” It was organized in Calgary under the command of LCol W.W. Nasmyth and recruited from Alberta. The Battalion embarked for Britain on 2 June 1916 aboard

5913-531: Was built adjacent to the armouries but the hall burnt down in 1941. The armoury for a time was home to a Permanent Force squadron of Lord Strathcona's Horse , but is most commonly associated with the Militia units in Calgary. Over the years, several units have been based at Mewata including South Alberta Light Horse , 19th Alberta Dragoons , King's Own Calgary Regiment , the Calgary Highlanders , and 746 (Calgary) Communication Squadron. During

5994-564: Was built in 1917-1918. For many years it has been home to the King’s Own Calgary Regiment and the Calgary Highlanders, both of which were established in 1910. The armoury is currently home to: The Calgary Highlanders erected and dedicated a Regimental Monument in front of Mewata Armoury in 1998. The monument takes the form of a Universal Carrier , of the type used by the regiment in the Second World War , painted in

6075-399: Was concentrated at Calgary with HQ and two squadrons at Mewata Armoury and some facilities at CFB Calgary. The regiment carried on as armoured with Sherman and Stuart (Honey) tanks until they were withdrawn between 1964-1969. At that time the regiment reverted to reconnaissance with 1967 pattern jeeps. In the mid-1970s, as well as 1967 & 1974 Pattern jeeps, The King's Own had at one time

6156-458: Was designed by Thomas W. Fuller ( Department of Public Works Architect) and the project was supervised locally by Calgary architect Leo Dowler. The structure was actually built by A. G. Creelman Co. of Vancouver , British Columbia. The building is at 801 11th Street SW and is still home to local Militia units, chiefly The King's Own Calgary Regiment (RCAC) and The Calgary Highlanders , but also 15 (Edmonton) Field Ambulance Detachment Calgary,

6237-592: Was formed out of approximately 400 members of the Reserve Regiment and approximately 100 members of The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada and The Loyal Edmonton Regiment. It was re-designated: '14th Army Tank Regiment (The Calgary Regiment (Tank)), CAC, CASF' on 15 May 1942; '14th Armoured Regiment (The Calgary Regiment), CAC, CASF' on 26 August 1943. https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/history/second-world-war/dieppe-raid/army_tank The CASF unit embarked for Britain on 20 June 1941. The regiment took part in

6318-676: Was held up by lack of bricks. Two brick factories, one in Redcliff and one in Montgomery were built for the specific purpose of providing the bricks to complete the project. The building was completed in 1917. During the Second World War, several wooden huts were built to accommodate the large number of Calgary soldiers mobilized for the Canadian Active Service Force. In 1939, a large recreation hall

6399-437: Was reluctant to give away the Mewata Park land, but still sought the construction of an armory. Compounding the issue was the 1902 Crown grant for the Mewata land which stipulated the property must be used for "purposes of a public park and for no other purpose". Eventually Calgary City Council passed a motion for administration to transfer the Mewata land to the federal government, which was strongly opposed by many Calgarians, and

6480-536: Was to assault the main beach at Dieppe. The following is an excerpt from the War Diary of the 14th Canadian Armoured Regiment (The Calgary Regiment): On the main beach at Dieppe, the broad plan of events was as follows: Despite the heavy bombardment from the sea by naval forces and from the air by Hurricane Bombers, the enemy's concealed positions in front of the town itself were not destroyed, and they were still able to bring most intense fire to bear on any point on

6561-603: Was toppled by Robert Borden's Conservative Party. Sam Hughes was appointed Minister of Militia and Defence and together Borden and Hughes sought to expand the role and prominence of militias in Canada. By December 1911, Borden had won over Hughes and Frederick Debartzch Monk Minister of Public Works to fund a $ 250,000 "Western Armoury". In January 1912, Hughes announced in Parliament "towns making offers of valuable sites were most likely to receive favorable consideration of

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