CELEBRATING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY

The 78 th Fraser Highlanders

Index
Colonel Commandant, John I.B. Macfarlane . . . . . . . . 2 Colonel Commandant, R.G. Darling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Regimental Headquarters, Montreal, Quebec . . . . . . . . . 3 The Student Squad, Montreal, Quebec . . . . . . . . . 3 LXXVIIIth Regiment of Foot . . . 4 Fort Calgary Garrison, Calgary, Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Fort Conestoga Garrison, Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario . . 6 Fort Fraser Garrison, Vancouver, British Columbia . . 7 Fort Garry Garrison, Winnipeg, Manitoba . . . . . . . 8 Fort Glengarry Garrison, Ottawa, Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Fort St. Helen Garrison, Montreal, Quebec . . . . . . . . 10 Fort St. Andrew Garrison, Quebec City, Quebec . . . . . . 1 1 Fort Vancouver Garrison, Portland, Washington . . . . . 12 Fort York Garrison, Toronto, Ontario . . . . . . . . . . 13 Moments in History . . . . . . . 14 Lord Lovat, Chief of Clan Fraser of Lovat 2004. Lord Lovat at 1973, Scottish World Festival, Toronto.

It is hard to believe in this modern fast paced world that the spirit of an organization founded 250 years ago can still be vibrant and meaningful. I say this with great pride in the 78th Fraser Highlanders founded in 1757 by one of my ancestors. I say with pride, too, that the Regiment was brought back to life more than 40 years ago with the endorsement of my grandfather, the World War II hero. Lord Lovat, my grandfather, had been approached by Colonel J.R. Harper, a wartime colleague of his, and David M Stewart, from the famous Macdonald Tobacco legacy in Montreal. Their dream was to re-create the Regiment which had fought so valiantly in the major battles in North America during the Seven Years War. I am sure none of these three gentlemen had foreseen the size the Regiment would grow to in the interim years, nor the good work it is doing with young people in passing on its great traditions. The recreated squads first major appearance was at Expo 67 in Montreal where my uncle Kim served as its Ensign, fresh from his British military training. A few years later my uncle Andrew was proud to be the Regiments Colonel-in-Chief until his unfortunate accident in Africa. So I find myself, as Colonel-in-Chief, in awe at being plunged into this role - a military role for which I am rather unfamiliar but which has run in my family for hundreds of years. Since my first meeting of the squad, officers and regimental ladies at the International Gathering of the Clan Fraser at Castle Fraser and Beauly in Scotland in 1997 and the return visit in 2004, I have heard so much of the good work being done throughout the North American continent. I look forward to the gathering of the Regiment in Toronto for the start of seven years of 250th Anniversary celebrations. To all members of the re-raised 78th I extend my very best wishes for continued success in portraying the glories and achievements of the original Regiment while passing this tradition onto the future generations. Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Colonel Commandant, John I.B. Macfarlane

I had been an active admirer of Colonel J. R. Harper and his 78th Fraser Highlanders for a number of years, when in 1986 he called and asked that I become his Second-in-Command. He spent some time with me explaining what he thought the 78th was all about and how he saw it moving forward. The focus on youth and passing on of military tradition had always been close to my heart. Having a history of 37 members of my family in the Black Watch over 3 generations, I was born with Highland Military tradition at every turn. My father, LCol William Macfarlane, a CO of the 3rd Bn Black Watch himself, had started the Black Watch Cadet Corps in the 1950s, and through my term as Commanding Officer of the Regiment, the Cadet Corps was an important part of my mandate. In fact, the first young Fraser Highlanders, in the 1960s came exclusively from the Black Watch Cadet Corps, and this developed into a strong relationship which continues to this day, along with the St. Andrews Society of Montreal, where I was also President.

Colonel Commandant, John I.B. Macfarlane.

When Colonel Harper died in May 1988, I assumed his role as Colonel Commandant, and for close to 20 years I have strived to continue and enhance his philosophy. Building on the work accomplished by Col. J. Ross Oborne, Commander of the Outposts, I have had great satisfaction in seeing the number and size of Garrisons increase across North American. I have had the opportunity to visit most Garrisons for Investitures, Change of Commands, and Dinners, and on one notable to tour with our Colonel-in-Chief, The Honorable Andrew Fraser, where we saw the excellent work being done to encourage youth. One highlight had to be the tour of Scotland in 1997 and our visit with Lord Lovat. But these highlights are too numerous to list, just to say they were all a true reflection of Colonel Harpers vision. In 1988, when I assumed Command, I inherited Sheila Robson and Bruce Bolton. Both have really been the backbone of the organization through its existence, double checking my every move and making sure that HQ functioned efficiently. I express to both of them my sincere thanks, and thank Lt. Brent Schaus for his work now. My Second-in-Command for most of my term was Col. J. Ross Oborne, a gentleman whose creativity and support could hardly be stemmed. We attended great events together, Ross always the show man, rewriting history wherever he could, and bringing people together to move the Regiment forward. When Ross retired a few years ago, we knew that we would miss him and we do. Ross is suffering from the effects of old age, but still stands straight as an Officer when called to attention. I first met Bob Darling when I served with the 48th Highlanders in Toronto, many years ago. We became military brothers immediately, and I recognized his leadership skills. When he appeared in a 78th Uniform in Winnipeg, I knew I had found a most fitting successor to Colonel Harper and I. To Bob I extend my sincerest wishes for a good and long term as Colonel Commandant. I am particularly pleased that this historic moment in the Regiments history can take place at the start of the 250th Anniversary celebrations and in the presence of Lord Lovat. This is truly an example of preparing for the future while at the same time remembering and honouring the past.

Col. J. Ross Oborne

Incoming Colonel Commandant, R.G. Darling

I am very honoured to be appointed by Lord Lovat, our Colonel-in-Chief, to the position of Colonel Commandant particularly as my term will include the 250th anniversary of our Regiments famous battle experiences battles which shaped our nations history and strongly influenced how Canada looks today. Succeeding Colonel Harper and Colonel Macfarlane leaves me with big shoes to fill. I will try my best. During my first year (and every year thereafter), I hope to visit each Garrison and Outpost. Please let me know the events in which you wish me to participate and I will attempt to be there. Please also let me know how I can assist you in achieving the goals that your sub-unit seeks to attain.
Colonel R.G. Darling Page 2 78th Fraser Highlanders

We exist to honour the short but significant history of a military formation with colorful traditions. Let us continue to do so in a manner that would make those that we honour proud. They deserve nothing less.

Regimental Headquarters, Montreal, Quebec

The Headquarters of the 78th Fraser Highlanders came into being in the late 1960s with the birth of the first student squad at the Montreal Military and Maritime Museum, now the Stewart Museum. During preparations for Montreals EXPO 67, the Museum revived two historic Regiments La Compagnie Franche de la Marine and the 78th Fraser Highlanders. Colonel J.R. Harper and David M. Stewart, with the support of Montreals Scottish community, provided the guidance the Regiments re-raising needed.

Mr. David M. Stewart

Colonel Ralph Harper

However, it was not until 1976, with the creation of the first garrison, that the Headquarters expanded its role. As more Garrisons came into being, the Headquarters developed its function as the hub of activities of the Regiment in North America. The Headquarters are housed in downtown Montreal, in the historic Forget House. It collects annual dues from the Garrisons, manages the Regimental Kit Shop, provides advice to the Garrisons, handles administrative duties for its members and encourages research into aspects of 18th military history. As we advance further into the 21st century, the Headquarters of the 78th Fraser Highlanders will continue to develop its role, in cooperation with the Garrisons.

The Student Squad, Montreal, Quebec

The student squad of the 78th Fraser Highlanders, based in Montreal, occupies a unique place in the history of the re-raised Regiment. It was created in 1966, the year prior to EXPO 67, and so pre-dates the existence of any Garrison. As such, it was known as the HQ Squad and, though it continues to receive support from the Fort St. Helen Garrison, is still known as such. A veritable fraternal organization, some 300 young men have passed through the ranks of the student squad in the forty years of its existence. Most have gone on to exceptional success in their respective milieu, be it the Canadian Armed Forces, police work, law, or the entertainment industry. Audience members, who have seen the musket or piping displays of the 78th Frasers, include Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, Presidents of the U.S.A., Scottish royalty, celebrities and countless thousands of regular folk. The 78th Fraser Highlanders Old Boys is an association, gaining momentum, which seeks to keep veterans of the squad in touch with one another, providing them with updates and news. Interesting to note that, for the second time, we have had a second-generation of soldier come through our ranks: Tim Mundy, who had served on the squad in the 1970s, has watched his son Ian Mundy spend a few summers in Fraser uniform. The student squad continues to uphold the traditions of excellence in dress, drill and deportment established by our forefathers: those of 40 years ago, as well as those of 250 years ago.
78th Fraser Highlanders Page 3 The 78th Fraser Highlanders student squad marching on at the Fort Henry Tattoo, Kingston, Ontario, in July, 2006.

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

LXXVIIIth Regiment of Foot

In Canadas story, the Frasers Highlanders have a uniquely romantic place. The Regiment played a daring and romantic role in the major battles of the Seven Years' War, a war which ultimately determined Canada's future. Although the regiment was disbanded in Quebec in 1763, it was the only Scottish regiment ever to be disbanded on foreign soil. The men of the 78th were first among the many thousands of "red-coated" settlers who remained in Canada. Since that time, their family trees have flourished placing their descendants throughout the country and the continent.
The 2nd Highland Battalion of Foot, commonly called Fraser's Highlanders was raised in Inverness Scotland in January 1757, under the Honorable Simon Fraser specifically for service in North America, and was numbered the 63rd Regiment of Foot. At the behest of Lord Chatham, Colonel Simon Fraser, Master of Lovat, raised the Regiment under Warrant for King George II. The 1,500 men were recruited largely from clansmen, who, a dozen years earlier had fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie in the War of '45. When an official high in authority questioned the wisdom of arming former rebels, General James Wolfe defensively replied, "If a Highlander gives his oath, he can be completely trusted". The regiment was marched to Greenock, where it sailed from Scotland via Ireland, in company with Montgomerys Highlanders, and landed at Halifax before moving north to lay siege and then capture the mighty French Fortress Louisbourg in 1758. Upon landing, it was proposed that there be a change in uniform. The Highland garb was said to be unfit for the cold severe winters and hot summers in North America. The regiment protested vehemently against any change to their uniform. Colonel Fraser was successful in explaining the strong attachment to the Highland garb to the Commander in Chief, and the regiment was allowed to retain its cherished national dress. It was after the siege of Louisbourg in 1758, that the regiment was renumbered the 78th Regiment of Foot or Fraser's Highlanders. The men wintered in Connecticut and southern New York State before undertaking the Quebec campaign throughout the summer of 1759. It was the largest regiment on the Plains of Abraham and suffered the heaviest casualties. Fraser's Highlanders were the only Highland troops fighting on the Plains of Abraham on September 13, 1759. On the Heights of Abraham, they shared General Wolfes day of glory. Legend holds, the Generals body was carried from the battlefield in the plaid of a 78th Fraser Highlander. During their short stay in Quebec, members of the Regiment were also responsible for establishing the first Presbyterian church in Canada and the first Masonic Lodge, as well as introducing the game of curling on the frozen rivers and lakes. When word was received of the disbandment of the Regiment, (the order was received December 1763), at Murray Bay on the lower Saint Lawrence, many decided to stay on land grants and many married into French Canadian families. Their descendants are numerous in Quebec today, especially in the Fraserville or Riviere de Loup area. Others returned independently to establish business concerns, notably in the fur trade, where they or their descendants explored and opened the continent naming such rivers as the MacKenzie and the Fraser. The influence of the original 1,500 men of this Regiment on Canadian and North American history is still evolving. The 78th Regiment now operates across Canada as a not-for-profit charitable corporation, its headquarters in Montreal, with the aims of preserving this part of Canadas military history and the Scottish traditions associated with the period. The Fraser Highlanders take great pride in the achievements of the past, take comfort in adding understanding to the present, and look forward to a strong Canada with hope for the future!
Page 4 78th Fraser Highlanders

Fort Calgary Garrison, Calgary, Alberta

The Fort Calgary Garrison was established in 1977, under the direction of Officer Commanding, Major John G. MacDonald. The current strength of the garrison stands at 52 Officers and 9 Miladies. Since inception, the major focus of the garrison has been the establishment and support of a youth pipe and drum squad. In addition to piping and drumming tuition, the squad is schooled in Canadian history, particularly as it relates to the period when the Regiment served in Canada. The squad also receives 18th century drill and musketry instruction, to support the fielding of a Black Powder Drill team, using replica Brown Bess flintlock muskets. The team is a feature attraction at the opening ceremonies of the Canmore Highland Games, and with the pipes and drums, performs during the Festival of Nations at the Spruce Meadows Masters international show-jumping tournament in September each year. In the early days of the Garrison, close links were fostered with the two regular armed forces regiments in Calgary, the Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry and the Lord Strathcona Horse (Royal Canadians). Garrison functions were held in the officers messes of the regiments, and some serving officers joined the garrison. Following the closure of CFB Calgary in 1998, these links were lost. Nevertheless, our military ties are maintained through the use of, for certain functions, the officers mess of the reserve forces regiments in the city, the Calgary Highlanders and the Kings Own Calgary Regiment. In addition, the youth squad uses rehearsal space for music and drill courtesy of The Military Museums in Calgary. The garrison holds three formal mess dinners during the year; the Officer Commanding dinner in October is the venue for induction of new members into the Garrison, and for awards of promotion to worthy officers, the Ladies Night in February honours garrison Miladies and the spouses of officers, while the Lovat Dinner in May recognises our Colonel-in-Chief. In early September, the garrison hosts a youth squad awards barbeque, when band achievements at summer competitions are celebrated and promotions are awarded. In recent years, we have introduced a band mess dinner in December, when members of the youth squad entertain garrison officers, undertaking all the duties of the officers at a regular mess dinner. The youth squad also holds a major fund-raising Burns Night event in January, which has proven very successful. Plans are now being discussed to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Regiment. We plan to feature the anniversary during public appearances of the pipes and drums this year, and the Officer Commandings dinner in October will be themed around the anniversaries of both the Regiment and our garrison. Major James Osborne Officer Commanding

Fort Calgary squad with their Mascot Angus, 1982.

Colonel-in-Chief Andrew Fraser at Mess dinner in Calgary, 1982.

78th Fraser Highlanders Page 5

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Fort Conestoga Garrison, Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario

As the Regiments newest Garrison, Fort Conestoga has its origins along the Grand River and serves the population west of Metropolitan Toronto and mainly in the Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Burlington vicinity. Recognized in June 2002 as an Outpost by then York Garrison OC Major William Murray and Eastern Region Commander Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Anderson, OC Major Roman Ciecwierz and Fort Conestoga received official Garrison status at a Regimental Mess Dinner held October 19, 2005 at the Officers Mess of the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada. Charitable status was granted early in 2006. The Garrison has continued to grow and to develop a profile in the local area, as well as, within its host regiment (RHFof C). In creating its inaugural statement of objectives, Fort Conestoga has committed to use its charitable contributions not only in the furtherance of the objectives of the 78th Fraser Highlanders (the preservation of Canadian military history and associated Scottish traditions), but also to assist charitable organizations of similar fabric. The RHFof C Regimental Trust and their efforts to outfit soldiers and their pipe band in highland dress is one such initiative, and secondly, a sponsorship commitment has been made to the Canadian Battlefield Foundation and their development of the Point 67 Memorial and historic battlefield viewing area in Normandy. Through the efforts of Captain Anthony Lea, 2IC, the Garrison has developed a good relationship with the local OHL Kitchener Rangers hockey club. Using The Year of the Veteran in 2006, as an impetus, an opening ceremonies tribute to veterans past and present was launched. A special silent auction program was created in conjunction with this very moving event. This has resulted in significant benefit to a number of organizations which the Garrison has chosen to support as part of its mandate to remember not only the past, but to also be mindful of the present. In addition to the organizations mentioned previously, beneficiaries have included the KW Poppy Fund in support of veterans and the London Military Family Resource Centre in support of soldiers in Afghanistan. Over the past three years in excess of $30,000 has be distributed to all of these organizations. In October 2006, Fort Conestoga participated in a Military Heritage Day, held at the Cambridge Armouries. This well organized event was open to the public and excellent displays set up chronologically around the parade square, representing various wars and conflicts in Canadian military history. This was a great opportunity for the Garrison and the Regiment to present its history and significance in Canadas formative years. The annual Feast of St. Andrew dinner hosted by the RHFof C continues to be supported by officers of both York and Fort Conestoga seeing increasing attendance every year. Major David Clark, OC York was one of the guest presenters at the 2006 dinner, while the OC of Fort Conestoga, Major Ciecwierz presented a cheque to the Regiment. This event is always fully subscribed and has attendance from local business leaders and politicians certainly giving Frasers Highlanders wonderful exposure. Fort Conestoga - born Ready!
Fort Conestoga cheque presentation to Col.Terry Wilder for RHFof C Regimental Trust.

LCol Stuart Anderson and Major Roman Ciecwierz stand with LCol Mark Fisher, CO Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada in front of the certificate granting initial Conestoga Outpost status (June 2002).

Fort Conestoga at Military Heritage Day.

Major Roman Ciecwierz, CD Officer Commanding

Page 6 78th Fraser Highlanders

Fort Fraser Garrison, Vancouver, British Columbia

The Regiment stretched its boundaries to the Pacific with the formation of the Pacific Outpost (Vancouver) in 1976 and the Fort Langley Outpost in 1977, both under the direction of the Calgary Garrison. In 1978 they were combined as an outpost of Montreal and in 1979 garrison status was achieved. The name was changed to Fort Fraser Garrison in 1981. Over the years, dinners were held at various locations including the Jericho Officers' Mess, the Seaforth Highlanders, 15th Field Artillery and the Wardroom, HMCS Discovery. The Annual Burns Dinner became the principal event of the year. A guard was formed and the garrison had its own piper, this position being held for many years by VS Jim A'Hara and latterly by now Lt Edward McIlwaine. In the early 1980's, one of the great highlights of the Garrison was the visit by Brigadier, the Honourable Lord Lovat. Accompanied by the Simon Fraser University Pipe Band, the Garrison was reviewed by Lord Lovat on the field adjacent to the Vancouver Museum. This was a fine event which included musket drills and black powder demonstrations. In the 1990's the Garrison reached a membership of over100 members under the command of Major Earl Weichel and the Honourable John Fraser, PC, former speaker of the House of Commons became the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel. As often happens in volunteer organisations, there was a decline in membership in the early 2000's,but the Garrison is moving ahead with a dedicated membership of 38 and adding new members at every principal function. Regular garrison events include the earlier mentioned Burns Dinner and three other dinners in honour of the Siege of Louisbourg, the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, and St. Andrew's Day. Our new Honorary Lieutenant Colonel is the Hon. Les Peterson, who has been a long serving member of the Garrison. Pipes and drums have always been important to the Fraser Highlanders, and the Fort Fraser Garrison is no exception. A small band was formed in 2000 and, with the guard, participated in a number of parades and highland events. The highlight of these was the annual public opening of the gardens at Government House in Victoria. With the departure to Alberta of the pipe major and loss of pipers, the band went into remission for one or two years, but is now rebuilding under the leadership of its pipe-major, Lt Bob Wilkins, and its instructor, Lt Edward McIlwaine. The band currently has ten pipers and two drummers and is currently adding drummers so that the four period drums owned by the Garrison can be fully utilised. The Honourable Guard, currently under the command of Capt Rob Rathbun, includes a colour party and gun crew for its replica field cannon. In addition to parading with the pipes and drums, the guard and its equipment are focal points for the displays at the various highland games and other public events. Major parades for the band and guard annually include the New Westminster Hyack Parade, the Steveston Salmon Festival on Canada Day, and the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Vancouver. In November, 2006 the Frasers could be seen in the Grey Cup parade on national TV. The Fort Fraser Garrison is alive and well and is looking forward to the possible re-forming of an outpost in Victoria, which, hopefully, will develop into a new garrison. Major Robert H. McIlwaine Officer Commanding

78th Fraser Highlanders Page 7

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Fort Garry Garrison, Winnipeg, Manitoba

FORT GARRY GARRISON SUSPENDS FLOGGING TO MARK 250TH ANNIVERSARY Being the garrison which guards and controls that swath of His Majestys North American hinterland, and the traffic at the confluence of the great Red and Assiniboine Rivers, our role is fighting. None may lose sight of that. We share the common enemies: intruders, savages, political neophytes, cads, idiots, abstemiousness, regulation, taxes, and change not necessarily in that order. The record since our outposts founding in 1985 under a then-dashing Capt. Jim Oborne and suborned rabble-rouser and recruiter Vol-Sgt Bob (The Beast) Vandewater attests to our fighting vigor. Namely: 1990: Marine action to survey suspicious Forks Development on Red and Assiniboine Rivers; 1991: Action to attack and recover the North-West Angle, 4,000 acres of peninsula in Manitoba north of the 49th parallel, a geographical anomaly suspiciously occupied since 1793 by the U.S. 1992: Action to scout and suppress undesirables at LIle de Lockport. 1994: Action to blockade Fort St. Charles at French Narrows to curb rebel pickerel poaching.1998: Action to secure Gimli Harbor against suspicious tourist infiltration and so on. I am sure headquarters would not want it any other way and would censure the disaster of committing more details to paper, there being so many untrustworthies around and, dare we say it, sometimes in our beds. However, all is not grim, dull or overpriced in this great year here. For the nonce we have built a fuller social calendar than usual to serve the febrile spirit of our 250th anniversary and are proud to share it, making it known that any Fraser garrison officer in North America has a standing invitation to participate. First plugged in was a Moose Hockey Game, followed by a candlelight romp at a favored ensigns pile in upscale Winnipeg. Polite snuff-taking techniques and multi-syllabic language lessons for all ranks prepared duffers for the annual golfing tournament and goose slaughter in June, the latter stimulating the aforementioned language enrichment. The 5th Annual Turkey Shoot and Single Malt-Sniffing Weekend was pulled off without death or injury at Rat Portage in late August. A Lakeside Pickerel Fry was datebooked at Gimli, the country seat of an esteemed captain, seeking perpetuation of his rank. This event, to replace his Last-Ginof-Summer retreat, has been overtaken by the Toronto change-of-command parade and anniversary celebration, and rescheduled for next summer. We have also chosen to raise the classical education of our garrisons combat training to include Modern Black Powder Musket Maintenance & Ball Molding (likely at a Rat Portage location in October). A few LORs and Miladies were hurt at being excluded until ball molding was explained to them. Several lanternslide evenings are planned to review Tunes of Glory, Shaka Zulu and Black Adder, to raise the level of military intellect. Scottish dancing, piping and drumming have been suggested as suitable substitutes for winter church parades, this while the padre and his lady are in tropical climes. Gods work has not been short-changed, however, as we continue our financial support of the Army Cadets Corps of Canada; The Duke of Edinburgh Award; The Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada; The St. Andrews Society of Winnipeg (ball and dinner); The Royal Military Institute of Manitoba; and, the Manitoba Military History Writers Society, for the writing and archeological research of Camp Sam Hughes.
Fort Garry Garrison Schell at Fraser turkey shoot.

Fort Garry Garrison LCol Darling, promotes LCol (Hon) Oborne.

Fort Garry Garrison Major Murray Burt, OC Fort Garry Garrison.

The pice of the year, of course, will be a Grand 250th Year Mixed Dine In, to include communal and regional heavies, at attractively high prices, to eat and drink lavishly and be delighted by a speaker (yet to be designated) on Plains of Abraham Tactics and Looting. One week will be identified when vetted volunteer sergeants who can read may buy honorary commissions at $50. And, as a socially enlightened feature of the anniversary year, the Officer Commanding has ordered that floggings be eschewed for the twelve-month and that alternative entertainment be provided when officers get frisky. Red-leading-and-feathering also will be set aside for 2007. In an effort to build the youth factor into our ranks, the better colleges may be raided for muscle to manage cannon the unit is bent on buying. Je suis prest et les autres aussi. Major Murray Burt Officer Commanding

Page 8 78th Fraser Highlanders

Fort Glengarry Garrison, Ottawa, Ontario

As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the Olde 78th Highland Regiment of Foot in Canada it seems fitting that the Fort Glengarry Garrison, in Ottawa, has embarked on a new mission through the formation of a Re-enactment Squad. Through a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, in early 2006, we were able to purchase all of the uniforms, muskets, and other gear required for a squad of 16 Cadets. While we were unable to secure the funding needed to pay wages for a summer of work for the students, we were, nonetheless, able to obtain sufficient funds from donations to mount a very reasonable schedule of activities during the summer. In all, we estimate that our Cadets were seen by no less than 16,000 spectators, at major events at: the Canadian War Museum and the Central Canada Exhibition (along with the Royal Canadian Legion and the Canadian Forces), in Ottawa, at Fort de la Presentation, in Ogdensburg, New York, and at country and local fairs throughout our part of Eastern Ontario. The more we were seen, the more demands that were placed upon us to attend events! It was a learning experience in every sense of the word as we grew into the management of a major activity on the part of the Garrison. Often responding to requests on very short notice, and as the news of our existence spread, it was a challenge to come up with the support needed so that the show would go on. Everyone who saw them loved the squad. Comments were often made that the hearts of the audiences went out to them as they looked exactly like their predecessors of 250 years ago - young, sometimes a bit awkward, and facing up to the challenges at hand. They exceeded our expectations by a very wide margin. They were simply awesome. For this, we are greatly indebted to Captain A. G. (Jock) Wright, the Squad Commander, whose vision it was to form the squad and who devoted countless hours to training, encouraging the cadets, and making it happen. For his outstanding contribution to the Garrison and the Regiment he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal at our Annual Dining-In, in December.
Fort Glengarry Garrison, Ceremonial Drill.

Fort Glengarry Garrison with Colonel J. Macfarlane.

This year, the Command Council, has the ambition of expanding the squad to 18 and of offering an expanded schedule of presentations in many more locations. Applications for funding have been made to several sources, and, at the time of writing, some success is being realized. Our challenge is to raise about $125,000 for this years activities - an enormous increase over our annual operating budgets in prior years (2006 excepted). As the result of our new activities people are becoming much more aware of the Regiment, and some are joining. The size of our Re-enactment Group is unique in the Nations Capital, and we look forward to a continuing and prospering Garrison. Our group could become an important tourist attraction, in addition to showcasing our heritage and honoring the remembrance of those who have preceded us.

Fort Glengarry Garrison, musket display at Ogdensburg.

Je suis Prest! Captain John Udd Adjutant and Deputy Officer Commanding

78th Fraser Highlanders Page 9

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Fort St. Helen Garrison, Montreal, Quebec

In 1989, Regimental Headquarters approved the creation of an Outpost in the Montreal area. The Fort St. Helen Outpost would provide the support and funds essential to equip, train and maintain the squad of young men at the Old Fort at St. Helens Island. Support was enthusiastic and within one year, the Officer cadre attained Garrison strength. To provide funds for the squad, and to entertain our Garrison, several events are planned each year. Our largest, and most popular, event is the Dinner Under the Stars, a lobster dinner held on the parade square of the Fort on St. Helens Island. Each year, 200-300 guests descend to view a display by the pipes and drums of the Black Watch, applaud new inductees into the Regiment and enjoy the firing of the Forts 19th c. Bloomfield cannon. During the Dinner, the guests are treated to the first official performance by the student squad. Following the Dinner, a fireworks display is enjoyed with a perfect view from the island. In fact, in 2007 the fireworks on the night of the Dinner were sponsored by Spain, so a flamenco dancer (with guitarist) was part of the evenings entertainment.
Fort St. Helen Garrison, outdoor Curling Bonspiel at the Stewart Museum.

Each summer, members of the Garrison join the squad on one of their many trips. In 1997 and 2004, the squad, along with old boys, officers and guests from other garrisons, toured Scotland in a highly successful trip. In 2005, the Garrison joined the squad in Riviere-du-Loup and Quebec City for a visit to the roots of the Scottish community in Canada. At that time, they received the Freedom of the City of Quebec. The Fort Henry Tattoo in Kingston was the Garrison trip in 2006, which included a tour of the Royal Military College. Plans are underway to participate in the anniversary of the Battle of the Plans of Abraham in 2009, and to return to Scotland shortly after. Other events during our busy social calendar, always keeping the welfare of the boys in mind, include: a Regimental Highland Dinner at the Officers Mess of the Black Watch (held in the fall), an annual outdoor curling bonspiel (followed by a rugged soldiers supper), a fundraising cabaret (featuring talent from within the Garrison) and movie nights. The Fort St. Helens Garrison has developed strong ties with the vibrant network of organizations within Montreals Scottish community. The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment of Canada), Canadas senior Highland Regiment, is the source of a particularly strong bond. Cadets from the Regiment form a majority of the student squad and these young musicians return to their corps considerably more experienced players, after a season with the 78th Fraser Highlanders. Every spring, Officers of our Garrison present an award to a deserving Black Watch cadet at their Annual Inspection. We have been blessed with exceptional leadership among our Garrison Officers Commanding, all of whom have had considerable military experience: Gordon Atkinson, Geoffrey Crocker, B.J. Finestone and, now, Okill Stuart. Sitting at the chair of our Command Group, they have each gathered together a group of committed officers, willing to do what is necessary to keep the student squad trained and equipped, and to encourage fundraising activities. We look forward to an exciting period of time in the years to come. As our older members retire, we are actively recruiting the next generation, who are preserving the traditions of both the Regiment and the Garrison, while providing us with some fresh perspectives. No matter what comes our way, Nous sommes prest. Major Okill Stuart Officer Commanding

Fort St. Helen Garrison, outside Manoir Fraser at Rivieire-du-Loup. From left: Captain William Campbell, Ensign Claude Larocque, Major Bruce D. Bolton, Major Okill Stuart and Captain-Lieutenant Denis Moore.

Page 10 78th Fraser Highlanders

Fort St. Andrew Garrison, Quebec City, Quebec

In October 2002, about 20 people gathered for a presentation given by two pipers. They were trying to convince a few people that an outpost of the 78th Fraser Highlanders would bring enough money to raise two pipe bands (junior and senior). They also hoped to have two soldiers become guides at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Old Quebec. Six years later, the Garrison is a well-organised, well-networked, bilingual group of about fifty members, some of whom are direct descendants of soldiers who fought the three Quebec City battles. Among our members, three honorary members, Jean-Claude Mass (biography on Malcolm Fraser), Sonia Marmen (four novels including two with a soldier of the 78th as a main character) and Diana Gabaldon, who needs no presentation, are our most well known. The Garrison has a band and a small squad. Classes are offered in bagpipes, drums, highland dance and Scottish Gaelic. About 20% of the population of the Quebec region has Scottish blood in their veins. But, being mainly French speaking, they have difficulty relating to their Scottish origins. The Fort StAndrews garrison has been trying to change this in Quebec City by exposing them to their Scottish roots with interesting results. Every year, four social events bring Scottish colour to the Quebec City panorama: St. Andrews day, Robbie Burns night, Tartan Day and a Scottish golf tournament. Recently, 80 guests, about half French speaking, attended the Robbie Burns evening, a bilingual event in the Quebec Garrison Club dining room.
Fort St. Andrew Garrison, Soldiers at 18th century powder store, St Louis Gate.

Fort St. Andrew Garrison, La Redoute Dauphine.

On a regular basis, the St Andrews Garrison tries to commemorate historical events relating to the Scottish presence in Quebec. The first year, the Augustine nuns were given special thanks for services rendered some 250 years ago during the Seven Years War when they took care of the wounded and sick soldiers from both camps in their hospital. The ceremony took place in the hospitals cemetery where Catholic soldiers of the 78th are lying alongside French soldiers including Montcalm himself. Last year, there was a re-enactment of the battle between the French Grenadiers and the 78th that took place during the battle of St. Foy. Afterwards, a tree was planted on the very spot where both groups faced each other. For the last two years, the Old Fort St-Andrews pipes and drums have participated in the International Military Music Festival in Quebec City. In 2006 & 2007, the Fort Ste. Helene Garrison Squad joined the Quebec Garrison for the celebration. The Garrisons best asset is Quebec City itself. You can walk in the same streets where the original 78th Fraser Highlanders walked. You can stand on the fields where they fought. Our Squad is now based at the Redoute Dauphine. This is one of the oldest and most interesting military buildings built on the continent in the 18th century (1712). It is still intact and has been meticulously preserved. The National Battlefield Commission is organising a re-enactment on the Plains of Abraham in 2009. We would like to invite all the 78th Fraser Highlander Garrisons and Outposts to participate with us in this event. We hope to install a military camp at the Redoute Dauphine or at another suitable location. This event would probably include other French and British army re-enactors. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the famous regiment in 2007 and in the subsequent seven years, the 78th Fraser Highlander colours and their tartan will often be seen in Quebec City. Major Guy Morisset Officer Commanding
78th Fraser Highlanders Page 11

A 78th dinner at the hallowed Officers Mess of the Royal 22nd Regiment in the Citadel, Quebec City in the 1990s organized by HCol. Charles Forbes, a renown WWII veteran and descent of Pvt. James Forbes. This was a prelude to the founding of the Fort St. Andrew Garrison.

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Fort Vancouver Garrison, Portland, Washington

During this the 250th year of the Regiment, the Fort Vancouver Garrison of the 78th Fraser Highlanders will celebrate its 10th Anniversary. The following is a reflection on our origin, activities, goals and accomplishments. A BRIEF HISTORY Ten years ago, Richard Fraser, a member of the Fort Fraser Garrison in Vancouver, British Columbia but a resident of Longview, Washington met Charles Anderson at the Kelso Highland Festival in Washington and interested him in the Regiment. Anderson then recruited Stuart Fraser and his sons Robert, Gordon and Alan and Don Allerton who all were inducted into the Regiment. During the first year George Coleman, Robert Pauley, Thomas Wilson and Annette Allen joined and with the aid of the 78th Regional Commander LCol Robert Simpson, the Fort Vancouver Outpost (Washington, USA) was established. By the end of the second year, the membership had increased sufficiently for the Outpost to become the Fort Vancouver (USA) Garrison. LT Richard Fraser was the units first Officer Commanding followed by MAJ Stuart Fraser. MAJ Charles Anderson is the current OC. ACTIVITIES AT THE GARRISON The Garrison began training pipers and drummers with the goal of establishing a Pipe Band. A band of about twenty was organized but was restructured as the Fort Vancouver (USA) Pipe Band in the Washington State Tartan and as such has been able to obtain public funding for uniforms and musical instruments. It is the official Pipe Band for the City of Vancouver, Washington. Today, the Band and the Garrison work cooperatively with the Garrison forming an honor guard for parades and events but in the uniform and tartan of the 78th Fraser Highland Regiment. V/Sgt George Coleman serves as a member and is a factor in the Kells Portland Pipe Band. While OC, MAJ Fraser was a Brigade Commanders Piper with the Oregon State Defense Force and frequently donated his piping skills at events and memorials. MAJ Fraser and CPT/LT H. Scott Richardson were requested pipers for the Washington State Guards Change of Command in 2003 at Camp Murray. The FVPB and the Garrison are supporters and sponsors of the Sir James McDonald Youth Training Band, placed first at Argyle and at the Worlds in Edinburgh. This year, they are the fifth ranked youth pipe band. As the Garrisons honor guard develops, we will seek to work with the leadership of the Sir James McDonald Youth Pipe Band and the Fort Vancouver Pipe Band to establish a Garrison Cadet Corps, at the outset consisting of members more interested in drill and ceremonies than musical training. This will provide a desired feature currently lacking in these established bands; at the same time promoting the rich tradition of the Regiment. The Fort Vancouver Garrison has provided numerous informative booths and educational displays about the historical Regiment and its contributions at Highland Games and Scottish Festivals in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. At the Kelso Highland Festival in 2005, the Garrison was the only official collection point for New Orleans hurricane victims for both the Red Cross and the Salvation Army. By invitation, we participated in the introduction of the Oregon Tartan in Bend and at the inaugural Highland Games in John Day, Oregon. We have hosted nearly a dozen traditional public dinners celebrating the 78th Fraser Highlanders Regiment, St. Andrews Day and the poet Robert Burns. And, it is not unusual for the group to have commemorative meals to compliment inductions and promotions. Upon induction, V/Sgts familiarize themselves with the history of the Regiment as an incentive prior to commissioning. Members of the Garrison often attend the events of other worthy organizations where there is usually opportunity to explain the history of the Regiment and there is always someone wanting their picture taken with a 78th Fraser Highlander! We are about to change command. The new leadership will be tasked with plotting the seven year course of our 250th Regimental Anniversary celebration. This will tentatively include planning a banquet and subsequent events, designing and creating a banner, developing educational material, formulating a publicity campaign and liaison with Headquarters and other Outposts and Garrisons. NEW PROJECTS EVOLVE FROM TRADITIONAL VALUES In addition to the traditional goals of the Regiment, the Garrison supports the modern military, public safety personnel and their veterans. Three years ago, members of the Garrison co-founded the highly successful Skyline Memorial Tribute, an annual Memorial Day Event reported by local media. Its Master of Ceremonies is a member of the Garrison and the FVPB and a brass band are featured. Veterans, Military Officers and Law Enforcement organizations participate. There are historic vehicles, a fly-over, an artillery salute, Generals and speakers honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The Garrison has also contributed artwork, photography, signage, publicity and awards. Members of the Garrison have assisted The Coalition in Support of the Troops in sending over 500 care packages to soldiers in the Middle East. Both the Pipe Band and the Garrison participated in the City of Vancouvers Regional National Salute to World War II veterans in 2005. In four of the last five years, the Garrison has assisted with crowd control at the Hillsboro Air Show whose proceeds are used for charitable purposes. And, for the past five years, the Garrison has assisted and been recognized by the Salvation Army in its Christmas distribution of food and toys for families and children. Normally, we help between 2,000 and 5,000 families and over 7,500 children. This year, the Salvation Army described the Garrison as their most reliable volunteers.

Page 12 78th Fraser Highlanders

Fort York Garrison, Toronto, Ontario

YORK GARRISONS 30TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2006 In 1757 Lovat had no idea that the 78th Frasers would establish an outpost in Toronto or others across North America. It is now over 30 years since Col J. Ralph Harper at the suggestion of L/Col J. Ross Oborne, decided to form garrisons in other parts of Canada. To aid in that endeavour the 18th century tradition of allowing Commissions to be purchased was re-instituted and in 1976 twelve officers were commissioned and an outpost was formed in Toronto (York Garrison).
York Garrison, The Kirkin of the Tartan at Knox Presbyterian Church, Georgetown.

Since that first year, York has been fortunate to have sixteen outstanding men step forward as Officer Commanding. This group of dedicated OCs has been supported over the years by Command Groups comprising up to fifteen volunteers, who are fully committed to carry on the traditions of an 18th century highland regiment. Some York Garrison accomplishments over thirty years: Establish the Regiments first Honourable Guard, with Officers equipped in Full Dress Uniform and trained in 18th century foot, sword and spontoon drill; The Guard has represented the Regiment at numerous State, Ceremonial and Social events, including appearances at Citizenship Ceremonies and the Metropolitan Toronto Police Tattoo; Establish a Musket Squad with young men equipped in Full Musketmans Uniform and trained in 18th century foot, sword and Brown Bess musket drill; The Musket Squad supports the Honourable Guard at various events and performs guard duties at all York Garrison Regimental dinners; Establish a series of Memorial Bursaries for deserving post-secondary students who are serving in the Canadian Forces Militia; Provide charitable donations to worthy community organizations whose goals match those of the Regiment and Garrison. Highlighting the Garrisons social calendar are four Regimental Dinners per year (including one Dining-In with Miladies) all held at prestigious historical venues. In addition, members partake in the Burns Evening, Annual General Meeting & Toss o the Quaich, Kirkin o the Tartan, Golf Day and Remembrance Day Service. Over the years, York has had glorious events and regimental dinners, but we expect none more so than the visit this year of Lord Lovat to help mark the 250th Anniversary of the Raising of the Regiment. A full agenda of activities has been planned and we are hopeful that what has taken over 1 1/2 years to organize will result in an abundance of lasting memories suitable to honour the occasion. After three decades, York Garrison, which now numbers 130 strong, has served as a beacon for the endowment of Scottish-Canadian culture and military history in Southwestern Ontario. We hope the Regimental history will record that we have stood in answer to Je Suis Prest. Major David Clark Officer Commanding

Col. Harper inspects York Garrison, Change of Command, May 1984.

Change of Command Parade September 2005.

September 2004 Dining-In.

78th Fraser Highlanders Page 13

CELEBRATING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Moments in History of The 78 th Fraser Highlanders

Montreal Musket Squad.

P/M Ian MacIntosh, of the first-ever student squad, profiled in a National Geographic story, 1967.

Reloading muskets at Balmoral Castle, in 2004. Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip are watching the parade from the doorway in the background.

Freedom of The City of Quebec Parade, July 2005.

The 1967 Fraser squad with The Honorable Kim Fraser (Lord Lovats son) in the center as Commanding Officer.

Montreal Gazette, Aug 8, 1988, during the establishment of the world record for continuous piping. As far as we know the 78th still holds the record.

Fort Vancouver Garrison, Seattle, Washington.

A young Bruce Bolton, 40 years ago at Expo 1967.

Company of Henchman - York 1997, (including many of Yorks founding officers). Back Row (l to r): Piper, Don Shaw, Al Fraser, Gil Fraser, Gord Wilson, Andy Duncanson, Earl Wichel, Don Schaefer, Douglas Murray, Frank McEachren and Howard Strader. Front Row (l to r): Rev. Hugh MacDonald, Glen MacNeil, Doug Breithaupt, Tom Arnell, Ross Oborne, Michael Johnson, Norm Hathaway and John Irwin.

Fort Vancouver Garrison, Seattle, Washington.

The 78th Fraser student squad featured on the cover of a calendar for the Bank of Scotland.

Group at Fort George, Inverness Scotland.

Honourable Guard, York Garrison at its finest. Clipping from Real Estate News, November 1982.

The 78 th Fraser Highlanders

COLONEL-IN-CHIEF Colonel the Right Honourable Lord Lovat 18th Baron of Lovat, 25th Chief of Clan Fraser of Lovat
HEADQUARTERS COMMAND MONTREAL COLONEL COMMANDANT .... Colonel John I.B. Macfarlane, CD INCOMING COLONEL COMMANDANT .... Colonel Robert G. Darling, CD SECOND-IN-COMMAND .... Colonel J. Ross Oborne REGIMENTAL ADJUTANT .... Major Bruce D. Bolton, MMM, CD REGIONAL COMMANDERS Eastern .... LCol Stuart Anderson Central .... LCol David Ingoe Pacific .... LCol Del Stavely GARRISON OFFICERS COMMANDING Fort Calgary, Calgary Alberta .... Major James Osborne Fort Conestoga, Kitchener-Waterloo Ontario .... Major Roman J. Ciecwierz, CD Fort Fraser, Vancouver British Columbia .... Major Robert H. McIlwaine Fort Garry, Winnipeg Manitoba .... Major Burt Murray Fort Glengarry, Ottawa Ontario .... Major David McDonald Fort New Inverness, Atlanta Georgia, USA .... Major James Kilpatrick Fort St. Andrew, Quebec City Quebec .... Major Guy Morisset Fort St. Helen, Montreal Quebec .... Major Okill Stuart Fort York, Toronto Ontario .... Major David Clark Fort Vancouver, Portland Washington, USA .... Major David C. Alford This 250th Anniversary, collector's edition, newsletter was produced by Bravada Consumer Communications Inc., with special assistance from Ms. Anita Stefanovic, Graphic Designer & Roman Ciecwierz, and from Headquarters, Lt.Brent Schaus & Major Bruce Bolton. September 2007