The 139th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force Colours were deposited in St. Peter’s in March of 1915. The 139th Battalion was authorized on 22 December 1915 and embarked for Great Britain on 27 September 1916. Its personnel were absorbed by the 36th Reserve Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force on 6 October 1916 to provide reinforcements to the Canadian Corps in the field. The battalion was disbanded on 21 May 1917.
In earlier times, Colours played a prominent part in many battles. They served to identify units in battle, often marking the focal point of a struggle. Captured Colours were a prized trophy and attracted enemy attention and inspired much gallantry. By the late 19th and 20th Century, however, they were no longer carried in battle, but their status as the heart and soul of a Regiment continued, and the laying up of Colours signifies and helps keep holy the memories of the men who sacrificed their lives.
