This memorial was unveiled on 20 April 2010 and commemorates the service of two of the Battalions of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada. Formed in Toronto in 1860, the regiment is Canada’s oldest continuously serving infantry unit. Two of its Regular Army Battalions were stationed in Victoria during the Cold War, 2nd Battalion returned from Korea in 1955 to Gordon Head Camp, now the University of Victoria prior to departure to Germany on 1957. The 1st Battalion returned from NATO duty in Germany in 1963 and was at Work Point Barracks until re-designated Third Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light infantry in 1970.
The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada have a long and proud record of service to Canada, fighting its first engagement in 1866 near Ridgeway, Ontario against Fenian Raiders from the United States. The deaths of nine soldiers at that time heralded sacrifices in campaigns throughout the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries serving in the North West Rebellion, Boer war, First and Second World Wars, Korea, NATO duty, Cyprus and other Peacekeeping Operations and today in Afghanistan.
This memorial symbolizes the dedication and sacrifice of soldiers of the regiment in war and peace. It reflects the affection, admiration and appreciation of all riflemen of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada for their service to the regiment and to Canada of their Colonel-in-Chief, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alexandra, KG, GCVO. They celebrated her 50 years as their Colonel-in-Chief as well as their 150th birthday.
