Canada Visit

The Duke of York, Colonel in Chief, The Queen’s York Rangers (1st American Regiment) visited Ontario, Canada to support the regiment with the trooping of its colours, a Guidon, which is the symbol of a Cavalry Unit. The Guidon was trooped to celebrate the award of four new Battle Honours by the Government of Canada.

HRH has close links with Canada, which developed whilst studying at Lakefield College School. The Duke is now the Chairman of the Trustees of Lakefield and commenced his visit by dedicating a building at Bayview School.

HRH then attended a Reception in Aurora, where The Queen’s York Rangers have a detached squadron, to commence the celebration of the new Battle Honours.

Following this The Duke visited Blue Barracks, Old Fort York for the ceremony of the Trooping of the Guidon. HRH was hosted by the Lieutenant Governor, who holds the position of Colonel of the Regiment in recognition of the part that The Queen’s York Rangers played in the construction of Toronto. The ceremony was attended by members of the Queen’s York Rangers, their families and invited guests. As part of the celebration and to recognize the significance of the day Old Fort York was presented with flags to display. During the Parade The Duke was able to inspect the Queen’s York Rangers, and take the salute as the Guidon was paraded.

The day ended with a Reception at which HRH reflected on the need to continue to support our troops, especially those that deploy on operations. The Duke thanked families and the community for their continued support, stating that he knew our men and women could not perform as well as they do without them.