Canadian Army history, skill testing question ...

[Mark W. Tonner]

On this date, 65 years ago, what unit did the GOC-in-C, First Canadian Army authorize under authority of CGS-139 (71-23-2SD Main, First Canadian Army dated 19 Oct 44) with effect from 0001hrs 24 October 1944 ... ?

... for those who know ...

... for those who do not ...

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Originally Posted by Mark W. Tonner

On this date, 65 years ago, what unit did the GOC-in-C, First Canadian Army authorize under authority of CGS-139 (71-23-2SD Main, First Canadian Army dated 19 Oct 44) with effect from 0001hrs 24 October 1944 ... ?

... for those who know ...

... for those who do not ...

Mark..
I'm guessing the "Roo's"....

[Jon Skagfeld]

Originally Posted by Mark W. Tonner

On this date, 65 years ago, what unit did the GOC-in-C, First Canadian Army authorize under authority of CGS-139 (71-23-2SD Main, First Canadian Army dated 19 Oct 44) with effect from 0001hrs 24 October 1944 ... ?

... for those who know ...

... for those who do not ...

I'm with Blair...1 Canadian Armoured Carrier Regiment.

Probably posted by Mark since their re-union is coming up 7 Nov 09.

What prize do I win?

[Dan Martel]

You're all correct. I got this from Hanno Spoelstra's site on the Regiment.

The Formation of the 1st Canadian Armoured Carrier Regiment
As 21st Army Group was impressed by the performance of Kangaroo-mounted infantry in the break-out of Normandy, it was decided to form a regiment of Kangaroos within each of the two Armies under command. Consequently, on 24 October 1944, First Canadian Army authorised the formation of the 1st Canadian Armoured Carrier Regiment. As the core of this new Regiment - the personnel and the vehicles of the Kangaroo Squadron - were at Tilburg, this town was selected as the point for concentration. November and December were spent in organising and the Regiment was brought up to strength in personnel and vehicles. Each of the two squadrons of the Regiment had 53 Ram Kangaroos divided over their four troops. Its personnel were drawn from all units of the Canadian Armoured Corps and some from artillery formations. Every province and every Military District had its quota of representatives. These diverse elements with their scattered loyalties were moulded together to form a coherent unit of high morale.

Cheers,
Dan.