The Algonquin Regiment, a Canadian Army Reserve Unit based out of North Bay has an addition to its name.
Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander of the Canadian Army and Defence Team Champion for Aboriginal Peoples, announced the addition of the name “Northern Pioneers” to the official title of The Algonquin Regiment at an even held in Parry Sound, Ontario, where a bronze statue was unveiled in honour of Company Sergeant-Major Francis Pegahmagabow.
He is the most decorated Aboriginal soldier of the First World War and was a peace-time member of the 23rd Regiment, Northern Pioneers.
“The addition of the ‘Northern Pioneers’ name brings the history of The Algonquin Regiment and the military presence in Northern Ontario and Muskoka back to the forefront,” Lieutenant-Colonel Ken McClure, Commanding Officer, The Algonquin Regiment (Northern Pioneers) said in a release.
“It allows us to perpetuate the legacies of all those from this region who valiantly served under The Algonquin Rifles and The Northern Pioneers. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
One hundred years ago this year, approximately 1500 soldiers from the Muskoka region departed for the frontlines of the First World War as members of two overseas battalions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force.
In honour of this anniversary, the Canadian Army is proud to include this historically significant title in the new regimental name: The Algonquin Regiment (Northern Pioneers).
