This housing complex was erected in 1969, named to honour Piper James Richardson, VC, who died during the First World War. The following is an excerpt from the National Defence - Directorate of History and Heritage - Victoria Cross - First World War, 1914-1918 - James Cleland Richardson
James Cleland Richardson was born in Bellshill, Scotland on 25 November 1895, and later came to Canada. When the First World War began, he enlisted as a piper in the 16th Infantry Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force. On 8 October 1916, the 16th Battalion was attacking a German position called Regina Trench during the latter stages of the Battle of the Somme in France. When Piper Richardson’s company was held up in front of the enemy trench by uncut barbed wire and intense gunfire, he strode back and forth, calmly playing his bagpipes. Inspired by his example, his company assaulted the barbed wire, made their way through it, and captured the German position. Richardson survived the attack and was later detailed to escort a wounded comrade and some prisoners of war to the rear. Along the way he realized that he had left his bagpipes behind, and returned to retrieve them. He was never seen alive again. For his exemplary courage under fire in this action, Piper Richardson was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously.