The Black Watch (The Royal Highland Regiment of Canada)

The Canadian impression portrayed by the New Hampshire WW II Group is of the famous Black Watch Regiment of Canada.  Originally formed in 1862 as a Militia Battalion, the unit has always been based in Montreal where its currant armory and museum are to this day.  Seeing action in the Boer War early in the past Century, the Black Watch saw rugged service in World War I where it received 26 Battle Honors for such actions as Ypres, Vimy, Somme, Amiens and Passchendaele to name just a few. While in Europe, the 13th Battalion served in the 3rd Brigade of the 1st Division and the 42nd Battalion served in the 7th Brigade of the 3rd Division.  Of the nearly 12,000 men to serve, 8,627 would be casualties. 

With the coming of World War II, the Black Watch would once again answer the call to duty.   Early in 1940 the unit was sent to England to prepare for the invasion of Europe.  In August of 42, detachments of the unit participated in the failed assault at Dieppe.  The lessons learned at Dieppe would contribute greatly to the success of D-Day 21 months later.    The Black Watch landed in Normandy in July as part of the 5th Brigade of the Second Canadian Division.  They immediately went into action around Caen with heavy involvement near May-sur-Orne and St. Andre that shattered their ranks. From there they would be engaged in some 29 other engagements across France, Belgium, Holland and into the Germany Rhineland.  Of the 5521 men to wear their proud uniform, 1852 would become casualties.  The Royal Highlanders won 19 battle honors for their service during WW II.

The Black Watch would go on to serve in the Korean War from 1952 to 1955, but would sadly be reduced to "Militia" status in 1970 with the draw down of forces.  Today,  the unit proudly serves as a viable part of the reserve forces of the Canadian Army.

( from DUCIMUS, The Regiments of the Canadian Infantry by Michael Mitchell, CD)

THE LHG'S ROLE TODAY:

The Living History Association strives to live up to this proud heritage.  We hope that you can share in our goals.  We are also currently organizing the 42nd Battalion Royal Highlanders of Canada to extend our impression and commitment to our WW I heritage.