Royal Canadian Dragoons
In 1899 the regiment served in its first international conflict during the South African War. During their voluntary service in South Africa they adopted the Springbuck as their present cap badge and collar dog. This was in honour of the Springbok’s role in a victory against the Boers. As it was, the nervousness of the swift Springbok brought attention to an otherwise unsuspected group of Boers who were attempting to approach the RCD unit by way of the tall field grasses of the South African plains. The RCD were based at CFB Gagetown until their departure for CFB Lahr, Germany. Upon the unit’s return, they were relocated to CFB Petawawa.
8th Canadian Hussars (Prince Louise’s)
The 8th Canadian Hussars were formed on the 4th of April 1848 when the New Brunswick Yeomanry Cavalry was formed from eleven independent troops of Cavalry. After serving in World War II for the first time as a complete unit, the Hussars returned to Canada and were reverted to a militia unit. However, in 1957, the Department of National Defence decided to create another Regular armour regiment. As a result of the New Brunswick Hussars excellent record, the honour was bestowed upon them.
