HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA -- 09/05/08 --
The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced today the return to service of the historic Halifax Rifles, and the creation of a new Army Reserve unit in Yellowknife.
"I'm proud to announce that one of Canada's oldest regiments - the Halifax Rifles - will see a return to service with the Reserve Army with Land Forces Atlantic Area," said Minister MacKay. "This new unit will lend direct support to the domestic operations commitments of the existing Reserve forces in the Halifax area". The Halifax Rifles will be either a reconnaissance or an infantry unit.
In addition, the CF is creating a new Company-sized sub-unit to be assigned to one of Land Force Western Area's existing Reserve Force Infantry Battalions in Yellowknife. Military leaders are currently mapping out the proposed mission and tasks for the new Yellowknife sub-unit which will enhance Canada's ability to operate in the North.
"The Army is expanding its Reserve footprint across the North by establishing a permanent land force reserve unit presence in this increasingly important region of the country," said Minister MacKay.
"Given our operational tempo abroad, it is prudent planning to enhance our ability to protect and support Canadians at home should the need arise," added LFAA Commander, Brigadier-General Dave Neasmith.
BACKGROUNDER
THE HALIFAX RIFLES
The Halifax Rifles was established as a unit in 1860. Members of this historic regiment proudly served Canada both at home and abroad, with many overseas campaigns and battle honours. As the 63rd Battalion, the unit also saw active service in Canada during the North West Rebellion of 1865. Many prominent Canadians served in the unit, including two Canadian Prime Ministers, The Hon Joseph Howe, (and three other Nova Scotia Premiers), as well as countless political and business leaders in the local community.
In 1965, as part of a major reorganization of the Militia, the Halifax Rifles was made inactive and placed on the Supplementary Order of Battle. Former serving members of the unit have remained active in the military community through their membership in the Halifax Rifles Armoury Association.
In September 2008, The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced the reactivation of the Halifax Rifles.
Contacts:
Information: 1-866-377-0811/613-995-2353
After hours: 613-792-2973
www.forces.gc.ca
