Canadian Irish Regiments

A number of Canadian Irish rifle companies had been established in the 19th century, as part of the Canadian Militia. The Irish Royals were formed at Saint John New Brunswick. In Lower Canada, a company of Irish Rifles were formed at Montreal in 1837. A Royal Irish Company at Quebec in 1837. And two companies of Loyal Irish Volunteers, under Captains Bagnall and Hobbs at Rawdon also in 1837, (there was still an Irish company at Rawdon in 1871). Two rifle companies were later formed at Montreal in 1856, under Captains Devlin and Bartley. And a company of volunteer cavalry under Captain MacCready in 1861. In Upper Canada a company of Irish Rifles were formed at Kingston, under Captain C. W. de l’Armitage in 1856. A company at Toronto in 1856 under Captain D. K. Feehan. A company at Brantford under Captain Hays, and a company at Hamilton under Captain J. McKeown, formed in 1862. In Nova Scotia the Halifax Irish Volunteers were formed in 1860. An Irish company called the Halifax Rifles were formed the same year, and added another company after the disbandment of the Halifax Irish Volunteers in 1865. The Charlottetown Irish Volunteer Rifles were formed on Prince Edward’s Island, under Captain J. Murphy in 1859. And an Irish battalion was formed in Manitoba under Colonel  Smith, and was active in 1885. (This is not a complete list, and more research is needed on this neglected subject). It was not until 1913 that the first Canadian Irish regiment was formed.

Irish Fusiliers of Canada

Permission to raise an Irish regiment of volunteers in Vancouver was granted by the Defence Department on August 15th 1913. Permission had been first sought in June of that year. The regiment was to be known as the 11th Regiment Irish Fusiliers of Canada, (the distinction Royal to be added to the title had been applied for, but this was refused by the militia council). Formed under Lt. Col. G. W. McSpadden, the regiment was to be of two battalions. The first was to have a strength of 440 officers and men in eight companies of 55 men each. The second was to be a reserve battalion. Recruiting offices were to open on September 3rd, and it was decided to form five companies at first (A through E). These could be recruited from the large number of written applications already received. After formation the 23rd Infantry Brigade was formed, and the Irish Fusiliers became part of the new brigade. During the First World War the regiment did not serve overseas, but raised a total of 4308 officers and men who served in overseas battalions, and won four Victoria Crosses. Men were also raised for the Railway Service Guard. This unit escorted Chinese labourers across Canada by train; the labourers having been recruited in China to work on military camps in France. On August 13th 1914 the regiment joined the Vancouver Military Rifle Association as “D” Squadron. This had been formed in October 1896 as the Rifle and Revolver Association, by the 5th Garrison Artillery Regiment, “to further marksmanship”. The Irish Fusiliers ceased to exist on October 30th 1917, when 5 officers and 20 other ranks were struck of the strength by order of the National Defence Department. They were re-organized and re-designated the Irish Fusiliers of Canada on July 2nd 1920, and were now commanded by Lt. Col. Ryan. In July 1923 U.S. President Harding visited Vancouver, and the Irish Fusiliers furnished a guard for formal inspection. The 2nd Reserve Battalion was formed on January 18th 1926 with Lt. Col. R. de L. Harwood as commanding officer, at this time the battalion only consisted of a cadre of officers. The 23rd Infantry Brigade was disbanded on January 14th 1936. And re-organized as the 14th Infantry Brigade with the Irish Fusiliers being a component.  In a re-organization the regiment was to disband amalgamate and re-organize with the Vancouver Regiment. As the Irish Fusiliers of Canada (Vancouver Regiment), authorized to take effect on March 17th 1936. But did not take place until May 31st and June 1st.  The regiment was placed on active service on August 26th 1939, the 1st Battalion sent a company to Prince Rupert, with the balance of the battalion gathering there over the next 18 months. In the spring of 1941 the battalion moved to Vancouver Island, and returned to Vancouver in early 1943. Where they entrained for New Orleans, and on May 14th sailed for Jamaica on the Cuba, disembarking four days later as part of the British West Indies Garrison.  They returned to Canada in August 1944 and were deployed to Dundurn Camp Saskatchewan, and in the autumn proceeded to Halifax and embarked for England.  Upon arrival the battalion was broken up, and the officers and men sent as reinforcements to the Canadian 1st Army. The pipe band remained intact and was attached to 1st Canadian Army Headquarters. The 2nd battalion was organized at Vancouver in 1940 under Lt. Col. McLennan, and was soon recruited up to strength. A 3rd battalion was formed at Vernon Camp in 1942, the officers and men coming from the 1st and 2nd battalions, and was part of 19th Infantry Brigade of Pacific Command. This battalion was disbanded on August 15th 1943, and had been commanded by Lt. Col. Crehan, who was later killed in action while serving with the 1st Battalion the Royal Irish Fusiliers in Italy, under the CANLOAN scheme.  In 1945 the regiment was re-organized as an infantry unit of the reserve army. And in March 1946 were converted to a light anti aircraft artillery unit, and re-designated 65th LAA Regiment (Irish Fusiliers) Royal Canadian Artillery. The regiment also acted as an aid to civil powers, and was called out between May 30th and June 12th 1948 during the Fraser River flood. In 1950 a Canadian brigade was formed to serve in the Korean War, the Irish Fusiliers providing a number of officers and men for service. On September 1st 1958 the regiment converted back to an infantry role. assumed its old title of Irish Fusiliers of Canada (VR). And amalgamated with the 120th Independent Field Battery RCA, which became “D” Company, and was located at Prince Rupert.  Reduced to nil strength the regiment was placed on the Supplementary Order of Battle list on March 19th 1965, many of the men transferring to other units. On June 25th 2002 the Irish Fusiliers were absorbed by the British Columbia Regiment, this was easily achieved as the Irish Fusiliers now only existed on paper. The motto of the Irish Fusiliers and Battle Honours were adopted by the BCR. The amalgamation was officially recognized in 2003.

On formation the cap badge adopted by the regiment, was a plain flaming grenade. This changed in 1923 to a brass grenade with a WM eagle standing on a tablet bearing the numeral 8, mounted on the ball. This is the Barossa eagle as worn by the Royal Irish Fusiliers. Which became affiliated with the regiment in March 1923. There is a slight difference to the eagle worn on the Canadian badge, it faces to the left, and the original eagle faces to the right. After the amalgamation with the Vancouver Regiment in 1936, a new badge was worn. This was a combination of the Vancouver Regiment cap badge, and the Irish Fusiliers of Canada collar badge superimposed on. This was struck in brass, but NCOs mounted a BM Irish Fusiliers collar badge onto a brass Vancouver Regiment cap badge, and wore these. In 1937 a new badge was adopted. This consisted of a brass grenade, with flames that were quite crude. And a harp surmounted by a maple leaf in WM mounted on the ball. A WM coronet was produced separately and worn at the tip of the grenade. These were often attached to the grenade, so that  one or two part badges are available. The regiment adopted the caubeen and green feather hackle in 1946-47, blue for officers, pipers and senior NCOs.  A khaki caubeen was worn by ORs who later adopted the blue version. A green cloth shamrock was worn on the caubeen as a badge backing. A Royal Irish Fusiliers BM cap badge may have been worn by SNCOs post WWII.

The last pattern cap badge introduced c1961, was a flaming grenade with a harp and maple leaf mounted on the ball. With the coronet attached. This one piece badge was BM, and the flames were of a different pattern to the 1936 issue. Note type with strengthener between coronet and grenade (right).

A short bearskin (busby) and green bristle hackle was worn by the regiment with full dress. Large grenade badges, S/G for officers, and brass for ORs, were worn on the busby. Pipers also wore the brass badge on the caubeen. A chrome version also exists.

A photo of Major Matthew Joseph Crehan. (Father of  Maurice John Crehan. A CANLOAN officer killed in October 1944, whilst serving with the Royal Irish Fusiliers as a Captain).  The cap badge worn looks to be a brass 7th Regiment Fusiliers collar badge. This badge appears to have been worn unofficially by a number of militia units, including the Irish Fusiliers of Canada. The collar badges  are possibly 104th Westminster Fusiliers collars. With the overlay removed, and replaced with the Irish Fusiliers eagle/8.  (Photo, City of Vancouver Archives).

The first pattern collar badges worn were all brass flaming grenades. These were replaced by brass grenades with WM eagle/8 mounted on, these are worn in facing pairs. After amalgamation with the Vancouver Regiment new collars were worn. A beaver on a tablet inscribed CANADA. Upon a scroll inscribed VANCOUVER BATTALION XXIX, in BM. At least three sizes exist. The bottom pair are marked SCULLY LTD MONTREAL.                                                                                                                             

Officer's vertical mess dress collars, and officer's bullion horizontal collars worn on dress uniform. The grenade was gold wire, with metal eagle and separate coronet. Photos often show the grenade badge being worn on dress uniform, with and without the coronet.

Metal shoulder titles worn were the numeral 11 in brass. This changed to the BM title I grenade/eagle F of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, adopted in the 1920s, (top right, this example marked J.R. GAUNT LONDON). When converted to artillery RCA titles in brass were worn (this one marked W. SCULLY LTD. MONTREAL). The BM title I grenade/VR F was adopted in 1937. A version without the letters VR is sometimes encountered, but may not have been worn by the regiment, (unfinished examples, or letters removed?). Later versions with a very yellow were also worn, and are late issue (bottom right, marked SCULLY LTD MONTREAL). The brass VR title of the Volunteer Reserve is often associated with the Irish Fusiliers. But appears never to have been worn by the regiment. 

The first cloth shoulder title authorized for the regiment was in 1940. IRISH FUSILIERS/(V.R.), green on dark blue, with and without serifs.  IRISH FUSILIERS/(VANCOUVER REGT.) green on dark blue were produced a few years later. A cloth title was worn by the 3rd Battalion in WWII. 3rd BN IRISH FUSILIERS/(VANCOUVER REGIMENT)/CANADA green on dark blue. These were possibly unauthorised, and produced sometime between February and August 1943. IRISH FUSILIERS/(V.R.) with orange letters on dark blue. With and without an orange border were produced but never worn. In 1946 the title 65 LAA REGT/(IRISH FUSILIERS)/RCA green on dark blue, with RCA in red. Was suggested but not adopted.  A red on dark blue 65 LAA was worn on the epaulettes when an artillery regiment. The IRISH FUSILIERS/(V.R.) title was still worn on the top of the sleeves. During WWII slip on titles were worn,  IRISH/FUSILIERS, black on khaki for winter dress, and black on khaki drill for summer dress. The summer dress title appeared in 1942. The letters V.R. were added in February 1942 to existing titles. So the titles read IRISH/FUSILIERS/(V.R.). A khaki version with black spray painted letter was tested by the regiment. But were found to be unsatisfactory, and never adopted. The last title worn was IRISH FUSILIERS/OF CANADA/(THE VANCOUVER REGIMENT) green on dark blue adopted c1960. A version of this title was produced with green letters on black, and may have been a production error, (illustrated bottom right).

Green on dark blue shoulder title, without serifs. Note also no full stop after the letter "R". This is not of the same quality as the other cloth titles. (Photo eBay).

Variation of the last pattern shoulder title. With quite rough embroidered lettering. (Photo Adams).

Buttons were of the same pattern as that of the Royal Irish Fusiliers. And bore the eagle on a tablet inscribed with the numeral 8. Gilt for officers brass for ORs, WM for pipers and small mounted buttons for officer's mess dress. Buttons were ordered through the Royal Irish Fusiliers, but some were Canadian made.

Belt buckles were the brass locket type worn by the Royal Irish Fusiliers. And bore an eagle in the centre, on the outer circle the motto FAUGH A BALLAGH with a shamrock at the base. All surmounted by a coronet, sometimes a WM coronet was mounted on top. There was some variation in the quality of these buckles.

Die cast white metal pouch badge. This badge was also worn by the Royal Irish Fusiliers. (D.O'C collection).

BCR pipes and drums insignia.  BRITISH/COLUMBIA shoulder title. BCR cap badge on a green shamrock with silver bullion border, and black backing. Worn on a caubeen with green hackle. A/A Irish Fusiliers buttons are worn by the band, BCR buttons by the regiment (this one marked FIRMIN). The maple leaf/harp collars were adopted by the BCR in November 2006. The Irish Fusiliers were absorbed by the BCR in 2002.  The band wear three of the shamrock cap badge backings down the side of the kilt. And a shawl brooch of the same pattern, as worn by the Royal Irish Regiment.

Some regimental blazer badges. (Photos eBay, PH and JC collections).

Cadet battledress jacket dated 1953. The title is the green on black type. Royal Canadian Army Cadet flash. And unknown letter "J".

Irish Fusiliers Cadets large cloth patch. (eBay).

Insignia worn by cadets. WM harp on a brass grenade cap badge c1925. When the regiment was placed on the Supplementary Order of Battle list in 1965, shoulder titles were still produced and worn by the cadets. IRISH FUSILIERS/OF CANADA/(THE VANCOUVER REGIMENT) green letters on dark blue with and embroidered border. Another with the same wording, but light green letters and border on mid blue was worn.  When the Irish Fusiliers Cadet Corps were re-designated 2381 BCR (Irish Fusiliers). BRITISH COLUMBIA REGIMENT/CANADA black on green titles were worn. These were replaced in 2009, by Irish Fusiliers/2381. Some were produced in error with the corps administration number, reading Irish Fusiliers/5333. The BCR cap badge is also worn, with a hand cut green shamrock backing. These are worn by corporals and above, on a black beret and a green hackle. Ranks below corporal wear the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps metal cap badge, and no hackle, but in reality hackles were often worn by new recruits on joining. The hand cut shamrock badge backing is now die cut. The issue of accoutrements, was harmonized across all BCR affiliated cadet corps in 2021. Hackles BCR cap badges and shamrock badge backings are now worn after six months service by the Irish Fusiliers cadets. The metal RCACC cap badge, is being replaced by a cloth version, which is sown on by the manufacturer.   Since late 2009 sergeants have worn a green lanyard. But are now worn by corporals and above, these are worn by all BCR cadet detachments. The last pattern Irish Fusiliers cap badge, has also been worn on a chrome waist belt plate by the cadets. 

A number of cadet detachments were affiliated to the regiment. The 1158 1st Cadet Battalion the Irish Fusiliers of Canada, were formed on June 9th 1924. Re-designated the Irish Fusiliers of Canada (VR) Cadet Corps, on November 6th 1937. And were disbanded on January 3rd 1942. The 1956 1st City of Vancouver Cadet Corps, were affiliated to the 65 LAA Regiment (Irish Fusiliers) on May 17th 1943. Re-designated Irish Fusiliers of Canada (VR) Cadet Corps, on August 31st 1958. And disbanded June 30th 1968. The 2579 Cadet Corps, were affiliated with the regiment on September 1st 1958. And disbanded on February 2nd 1968. 2669 St. Thomas More High School Cadet Corps. Were authorised on December 1st 1960, and affiliated to the Irish Fusiliers of Canada (VR). They were disbanded on January 15th 1976. On February 1st 1979 an existing cadet corps, was re-designated 2381 Irish Fusiliers of Canada Cadet Corps. The cadets were affiliated to the Irish Fusiliers of Canada Association, on February 7th 1979. When the British Columbia Regiment, and the Irish Fusiliers of Canada were amalgamated, in June 2002. The cadet corps were re-designated. 2381 British Columbia Regiment (Irish Fusiliers) Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, they are still active. The 2781 Powell River Cadet Corps were formed and affiliated with the Irish Fusiliers of Canada, on January 16th 1965. In 1969 they became affiliated with the British Columbia Regiment.  

Battle Honours

YPRES 1915, 17; FESTUBERT; Mount Sorrel; SOMME 1916, 18; Flers-Courcelette; Thiepval; Ancre Heights; Ancre 1916; ARRAS 1917, 18; VIMY 1917; Scarpe 1917, 18; HILL 70; PASSCHENDAELE; AMIENS; Drocourt-Queant; HINDENBURG LINE; Canal du Nord; Cambrai 1918; Valenciennes; FRANCE AND FLANDERS 1915-18.

Irish Canadian Rangers                       

Following the outbreak of the First World War, a number of meetings were held in Montreal by a committee of prominent Irish Canadians. These were to discuss the advisability of applying for a permit to form a regiment of Montreal Irishmen. Probably to be called the Irish Fusiliers. Authority was granted on August 29th 1914 to form the 55th Regiment Irish Canadian Rangers. It was to be a single battalion regiment of 475 men. The only qualifications needed for enlistment were physical and general fitness, and to be of Irish descent. Enlistment was open to all religions. Recruitment started in September and Lt. Col. H. J. Trihey, the principle organizer was the first commanding officer. In November the Irish Canadian Rangers held their first parade through the city, and had a strength of 300 men in four companies. The parade netted another 25 recruits for the regiment. On April 24th 1915 they were inspected by H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, this was the first public function in full uniform. The regiment was now 400 strong had its own 40 piece band, as well as a drum and bugle band. The Irish Canadian Rangers were formed for home defence, but provide many men for the Canadian Expeditionary Force, forming the 199th Battalion and a company of the 60th Battalion. The regiment also provided men for the Montreal Home Guard, which was composed of men from local militia regiments, and was used to guard strategic installations. Re-designated the Irish Canadian Rangers on April 1st 1920, the regiment had been dissolved in 1919, and was disbanded on December 14th 1936.

The first pattern of cap badge proposed in March 1915. Consisted of a harp surmounted by a KC, with the figures 55 appearing in the centre of the harp. With maple leaves and shamrocks entwined either side. Below this a scroll inscribed IRISH CANADIAN RANGERS. This badge was approved by the authorities in Ottawa, but rejected by the regiment who were unhappy with the design. Collars of the same design were also to have been worn. (Sketch copyright LAC).

The cap badge adopted by the regiment consisted of a circlet inscribed IRISH CANADIAN RANGERS, in Gaelic lettering. With a pedestal at the base containing the figures 55. In the centre of the circlet a shamrock, all surmounted by a KC. And was sent for approval in November 1915.  514 were soon ordered from G. F. Hemsley and Company of Montreal, who had manufactured the die for this badge for $25. The two badges illustrated are die struck. There is also a die cast copper example, with a flat back. 

Another cap badge produced had a harp over the figures 55, on a scroll inscribed IRISH CANADIAN RANGERS. With entwined maple leaves and shamrock either side, the whole surmounted by a KC. It is unclear when this badge was worn.  (D.O'C collection).

55th collar badges, these ones with blades, but also come with a brooch fitting. And are worn with the harp facing outwards.

Brass regimental buttons, by W. SCULLY MONTREAL. These examples are of others rank quality. (D.O'C collection).

Canadian The Irish Regiment of Canada

The Irish Club and the Irish Rifle Club of Toronto both wanted to establish an Irish regiment in the city of Toronto. At a joint meeting it was decided to join forces, and form a regiment to be called the Irish Fusiliers or Irish Guards. Authorization was granted in April 1915, and a regiment formed as the 110th Irish Regiment. Which was gazetted on October 15th 1915, and commanded by Lt. Col. R. H. Boyd McGee. During the First World War the regiment formed the 208th Canadian Irish Battalion, and sponsored the 180th Sportsmen’s Battalion. Both formed for overseas service. On May 1st 1920 the regiment was re-designated the Irish Regiment. An application to change the name to the Prince of Wales Leinster Regiment Royal Canadian, (after the disbanded Irish Regiment) was rejected in January 1932. On September 1st 1932 they were re-designated, the Irish Regiment of Canada. And on December 15th 1936 the regiment absorbed “HQ” and “A” Companies, of the 1st Canadian Machine Gun Corps. Becoming the Irish Regiment of Canada (MG), and commenced training as a medium machine gun battalion. After the outbreak of the Second World War, the 1st Battalion was mobilized on June 18th 1940 under Lt. Col. Duthie. With this came the authorization to form a 2nd reserve battalion, under Lt. Col. A. Cockeram. Which supplied men for overseas service, and later home defence. From July 1940 until April 1941, the 1st Battalion was located at Camp Borden, where training was carried out. While there it was re-converted to an infantry battalion, and was re-designated the Irish Regiment of Canada. Recruitment also continued, and the regiment made trips to Hamilton Brantford, Guelph, Erie, Lindsey and other town to secure recruits. The battalion was part of the 11th Canadian Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Armoured Division. And embarked at Halifax on October 28th 1942, proceeding to Scotland, where they disembarked at Greenock and Gourock on November 4th-5th. Arriving at Aldershot on the 6th where training continued, and were transferred to the 5th Canadian Armoured Division, on January 11th 1943. Training commenced at Salisbury Plain in May, and at King’s Lynn from July. While there the battalion mounted a Royal guard at nearby Sandringham House, from the 4th to the 18th of August. On October 23rd they embarked onboard the Monterey at Liverpool, and departed for Italy. Disembarking at Naples on November 10th, having come under German air attack along the way. The battalion took part in its first action on January 17th 1944. Attacking across the Arielli River, on the Ortona front. The next day moving further west, where regular patrols were mounted. And a bottle of whiskey was won by “B” Company, for the first prisoner of war captured by a unit of the 5th Canadian Armoured Division. They proceeded to Cassino in April, and took part in the Battle of the Hitler Line in May. Then to the Caiazzo Line, and on to the Gothic Line in August. The last action in Italy was at the Battle of Coriano in September. The battalion headed to Cattolica on the North Adriatic Coast, and sailed on February 15th 1945. Disembarking at Marseilles by February 26th, drove north through Belgium, and arrived in Holland on March 27th. Taking part in the push to Delfzijl, where the battalion finished the war. The 1st Battalion returned to Canada in January 1946, on their return the 2nd Battalion was disbanded. In 1951 the regiment was given the opportunity to convert to a rifle regiment, and adopt a rifle green uniform. But this was rejected as it would mean no longer wearing the kilt, which had been adopted by all ranks in 1932. In 1965 the 1st Battalion was reduced to nil strength, and placed on the Supplementary Order of Battle list. With the intention of keeping an Irish regiment in Canada. A plan to re-designate an existing regiment in Montreal The Irish Regiment of Canada. Was proposed by the Saint Patrick's Society of Montreal, to the Minister of National Defence, in November 1964. In June 1965, the society also proposed. The Royal Canadian Hussars, be re-designated The Royal Canadian Irish Hussars. But was rejected, as it was thought that it might inhibit recruiting of French Canadians into the regiment. On March 15th the 58th (Sudbury) Field Artillery Regiment, which had been converted to infantry. And was located in the Eastern Ontario town of Sudbury. was re-designated 2nd Battalion the Irish Regiment of Canada. During a re-organization in 1970 “C” “D” and “Support” Companies were disbanded. The Irish Regiment became an original part of the 33rd Brigade Group, which was formed on April 1st 1997. And was part of Land Forces Central Areas. In the same year the regiment was deployed to the Red River, to aid the civil population after heavy flooding, and to the Ottawa valley after severe ice storms. Men have also been deployed worldwide to such places as Cyprus the Golan, the Balkans and Afghanistan. On July 9th 2013, the Minister of Defence announced the Canadian Army would returned to divisional based organisation. Land Forces Central Areas, was re-designated 4th Canadian division.

The first cap badge adopted by the regiment was in brass. And consisted of a harp with a scroll below inscribed IRISH REGT CANADA. All surmounted by a KC (a non voided version also exists). This was worn until 1932 when a new colonel dramatically changed the dress of the regiment. Adopting the kilt, caubeen and busby, with scarlet jackets for full dress. The change  was officially recognised in 1933. The new cap badge consisted of a WM harp and scroll bearing the regimental motto FIOR GO BAS. On a brass star surmounted by a KC (makers marked BIRKS). Officer's cap badges were larger and consisted of a star known within the regiment as the independent star (no one knows why), in gilt with the harp and scroll in silver (marked P on back). Another officer's version was in silver and bronze.

In 1957 the KC badges were replaced by QC officer's badges in S/G (this one marked J.R. GAUNT/LONDON to rear of crown). ORs adopted a brass and white metal version of the officer's pattern badge, but not before 5800 old badges held in store were used up. The early OR's badges had semi voided strings, later badges were voided, one of which is cast. The current badge has a bright gold and silver finish, worn by all ranks on the caubeen, and by ORs on the beret (makers mark LAMOND 02 on ball of slider).

A QC officer's quality cap badge. Note there is no scroll bearing the regimental motto. Maker marked J.R. GAUNT/LONDON.

A KC officer's cap badge also without the scroll. This one with no makers mark. There is no information available on these sans scroll badges. (Photo Adams).

Variations of the cloth badge worn on the boonie hat, (AKA bush hat or bucket hat). First adopted in the 1960's.

Variations of the last pattern cap badge. Makers marked top left to right. EVCO 80, C LAMOND 90,  LAMOND 01, bottom badge LAMOND 02.

The early collar badges were similar to the first pattern cap badge in brass, but without the scroll, and were worn in pairs. Unlike other Irish regiments the harps face outwards. These collars were also silver plated, and may have been worn by the band. In 1932 the collars changed to smaller KC harps, S/G for officers, BM for SNCOs and band, (marked W. SCULLY. LTD) and WM for ORs (also marked W. SCULLY. LTD). 

Harp collars surmounted by a KC, in die cast WM (middle row, left). Also available in die struck WM, and also brass, these were worn c1920-32. The die cast example shown has the makers mark J.R. GAUNT/MONTREAL/MADE IN ENGLAND, stamped into the badge, the die struck bronze type has a tablet fixed to the back reading MADE IN/ENGLAND. 

KC and QC chrome collars were also worn, but I have no further information on these. The current BM collars are worn by all ranks (bottom right).   

Top left, yellow on green WWII issue, below this is the WWII printed title. The orange on green title is WWII and was also worn post war.  Bottom left possibly an unauthorised British made title during WWII. Top right yellow on green is post war issue. The two bottom right are 2nd Battalion issue. The smallest c1980, is 84mm x 30mm.

Left row buff on green, worn by 1st Battalion and 2nd Battalion on formation. The right row, probably worn by 2nd Battalion on garrison dress, and by cadets.

Some variant of the last pattern title. The top left is yellow on green. And is worn by the 2964 Walden Irish cadet detachment, adopted late 2021.

Metal shoulder titles were brass IRISH/REGIMENT/110 (a voided version also exists). And were worn with the 110 removed after the regiment lost its 110 designation in 1920. IRISH REGT/CANADA in brass was later adopted (makers marked W. SCULLY LTD. MONTRAL). Nickel plated or silver plated versions were worn on the blue undress uniform. Another title was IRISH REGT. in brass, was a later version worn on the undress uniform, and has spike fittings. The current title IRISH REGT has a heavy gold finish, and screw post fittings.   

WWII black on khaki, battle dress slip on shoulder title (J. Cooper collection). And a black on khaki drill version was worn on the summer uniform. The summer title adopted c1942.  (Photo CWM). There is also a white on khaki IRISH REGT. CANADA, with curved Canada. 

2nd Battalion rank slides with yellow (new gold), 2 IR RC embroidered directly onto slide.

Variations of the 2nd Battalion rank slides, with a sow on flash bearing 2 IR RC. Including arid region pattern CADPAT (bottom right), and high-vis on temperate woodland pattern CADPAT (top right). An olive drab 2 IR RC, with lower case "r", bottom left. And an orange (old gold) on black flash, with a black embroidered border, on black rank slide, (top row second from left). There is also an embroidered yellow (new gold) version, on black, not illustrated.

Some variants of the 2 IR RC tab. Left column top to bottom, olive drab type, middle arid region pattern CADPAT, bottom olive drab with lower case "r". Middle column all green type. And right column temperate woodland pattern CADPAT.

Private purchase rank slides. IRISH REGT. and IRISH REGT, with no full stop. (Photo DC).

The next generation of rank badge. These have the unit designation embroidered directly onto the badge. And will replace rank slides. It is Velcro backed, (all badges worn on combats will be attached by Velcro).  This is a private purchase example. 

Tactical recognition flash, worn on left arm. This was adopted on September 7th 2023, for wear on combats. The Velcro backed badge was approved by the battalion's Colonel, to be worn within company lines, 78mm x 78mm (left). And was inspired by a flash, that had been worn by the London Irish Rifles, 64mm x 64mm (right).

Epaulettes made from kilt material, there are also slip on types. (Photo 2IRRC FB).

Regimental buttons were brass and consisted of a harp surmounted by KC or QC, a cast QC button was also worn. Gold A/A buttons are currently worn, early types were very yellow and bore an elongated harp. Mounted KC mess dress buttons exist, and are BM (not illustrated).

In 1952 buttons with motto were approved, but never adopted by the regiment. (Copyright LAC). Although blazer buttons of this design are available with a KC, and appear of modern manufacture. Probably for regimental association use.

Royal Irish Rangers silver staybrite buttons, were worn by the regiment for a time in the 1980s.

Regimental stable belts were first worn c1940, and were fastened by two leather buckles. Later versions were thinner and had a locket type buckle. With the harp and crown in centre and motto below, these may have been only worn by the 2nd Battalion (HOBSON & SON/(LONDON) LTD). And a private purchase regimental trouser belt. This one has a chromed buckle, with gold embossed badge (marked ZIPPO to rear), older types had a brass buckle. Rectangular WM buckles with angled corners were produced in the early 1960s. These had the harp and crown mounted in the centre, and were worn on a white poly cotton belt, with the scarlet tunic. Also seen on an officer's gold braid belt, which has a green central strip (there is a shamrock design in the weave of the gold braid). Another buckle worn around the same time, consisted of a gold plate with the harp and crown mounted in the centre, and were worn on a webbing belt (marked W. SCULLY). These were originally given as efficiency incentives, and then in early 1961 became a purchase item for all SNCOs and officers. These buckles originally had a KC harp, later changed to QC, (there is also a pattern worn in the early 1960's with no crown above the harp). The buckle worn by pipers consisted of a belt plate with a crowned harp in the centre, and a shamrock design either side. The plate was brass, and the harp and shamrocks WM (not illustrated). A brass belt plate with engraved shamrock design was also worn by regiment, probably adopted pre WWII.

The sporran badge is a harp surmounted by a crown. The same badge was also worn on the belt buckle plates, and comes in a variety of metals. Top row left to right. KC brass, (marked SCULLY LTD./MONTREAL). QC anodised metal, gold staybrite, (SCULLY LTD./MONTREAL). QC gold anodised aluminium, not as heavy as the previous badge, no makers mark. Bottom row left to right. QC yellow brass, (SCULLY LTD./MONTREAL). QC chrome, (SCULLY LTD./MONTREAL). QC cast silver aluminium, no makers mark. The later is very rough cast, and has lost a lot of detail compared to the earlier sporran badges. KC and QC WM badges were worn, not illustrated. The KC BM OR's cap badge was also worn as a sporran badge. The KC WM Royal Ulster Rifles cap badge may have also been worn. A KC BM badge was produced, but I have no information when it was worn.

Officer's Baldrick badge known as the starburst. And heavy die cast version of the starburst badge (right). The star burst was also worn as a caubeen badge by pipers. As this badge does not have quality of an officer's badge, perhaps it was intended for use by pipers.

A more detailed picture of the star burst badge. This badge weighs in at 53g, the better quality one at 41g.

A piper's die cast badge, there is a version with a hackle holder to the back. And were originally worn by all members of the band. Before these officer's S/G cap badges were worn. Drummers adopted the officer's badge mounted on a chrome ball, this was worn on the busby. A rear view of the type with a hackle holder. Note this badge has a better quality smooth finish.

The kilt brooch was in silver, and of Celtic design. There is also a pattern with a green stone shamrock mounted on the rim. The brooches were originally worn on a green cloth backing, which was later changed to a rosette. Also illustrated are kilt pins worn by the regiment.  Another kilt brooch is similar to the type worn by the Irish Guards, shown here worn on the rosette. (DC collection).

Hose top flashes were made of kilt material, or green depending on form of dress. Saffron flashes have also been worn for a time.

Officer's bullion beret badges (top row), the detail on these varies depending on the manufacturer. The 1st Battalion only had two bullion badges made, one with a KC, and another QC. Both for the regimental mascot's dog jacket. Officer's bullion collars, worn on the scarlet jacket (bottom row).                             

Regimental Ascots. (DC collection).

Regimental blazer badges, most are wire embroidered. Top left is printed, and bottom row middle, is embroidered thread. Bottom left badge marked PENNY'S/of/Thunder Bay.

Moral/challenge patches. These were first introduced during the COVID pandemic, as moral badges. The first (bottom left) depicts the mad leprechaun. And was awarded for completing the rucksack challenge of September 2020. A 10 kilometre walk with a 35 pound rucksack, in under 2 hours 35 minutes. This badge came in full colour, tan, or black and white.  The second challenge, October/November 2020 (top left). Is the "Gates" Roberge  workout challenge, (Gaétan Roberge was attached to the regiment, and was KIA in Afghanistan in December 2008), 30 of these badge were produced. The third challenge took place in June 2021, (top right). Was for a long distance ruck march, of 16 kilometre with a 27 kilogram rucksack. The forth challenge, summer/autumn 2021, was a ruck march, more weight longer distance, (bottom right). This badge differs from the others, in that it is made of PVC. Badges were authorised for wear by the commanding officer, and only worn within company lines. They were worn for a period of one month after being awarded.

Sweetheart brooch and pin badges etc. From King's Crown period, to present day. The V for Victory badge, top middle, maker's mark looks to be CORS. The small KC badge, top left, is marked STFP.

The first Cadet Corps affiliated to the regiment, was the 269 De La Salle Oakland College Cadet Corps. Affiliated on July 11th 1942, they were disbanded December 1st 1947. 1793 St Michael's College Cadet Corps were also affiliated on July 11th 1942, and disbanded March 31st 1947. 1794 Forest Hill Village School Cadet Corps were affiliated on July 10th 1942, and disbanded March 31st 1947. Northern Vocational School Cadet Corps, who were “K” Company, of the Toronto Collegiate Institute Cadet Regiment 48. Were affiliated on July 10th 1942, until December 12th 1945. 2288 Malvern Collegiate Cadet Corps, became affiliated with the regiment on March 9th 1948. The 2374 Irish Regiment of Canada Cadet Corps, were formed on January 17th 1950, and disbanded December 31st 1950. The 2408 Camp Borden Cadet Corps, were affiliated to the regiment from April 15th 1952, until August 31st 1958. Cadet detachments were also affiliated to the 2nd Battalion. The 2912 Sudbury Cadet Corps, which had been formed on February 1st 1973. Were affiliated in 1976, and are still active as "A" Company. French River Cadet Corps were formed as "B" Company, in September 2012. The 2912 now have a competition winning fife and drum band. The 2915 Irish Regiment of Canada Cadet Corps, formed at Capreol on September 1st 1973, are still active. The 2964 Walden Cadet Corps, formed on March 1st 1979, were affiliated on March 3rd 1979. And are also still active. The 2976 Espanola Cadet Corps formed on January 15th 1981, affiliated to the regiment May 26th 1987. And were disbanded November 4th 1990. Whilst most of the insignia worn by the cadets mirrored that worn by the regiment. Some of the detachments had shoulder titles produced. SUDBURY IRISH RCAC/2912 yellow letters and border on green. This detachment was sponsored by the Sudbury Regional Police Association. From January 22nd 1976, which was reflected in some of the titles worn. 2912 SUDBURY RCAC/maple leaf/REG. POLICE ASSN. white letters and border on dark blue with a red maple leaf. And 2912 SUDBURY IRISH RCACC/maple leaf/SUDBURY POLICE ASSOC. white letters and border on dark blue, with a red maple leaf. RCACC cap badges are issued on joining, and regimental cap badges issued  when the rank of master corporal is archived. In 2010 the Capreol Irish adopted, Irish Regiment/2915, this has gold letters on black with a green embroidered border. And has been replaced by another with same colours, but with the wording THE IRISH REGIMENT OF CANADA/2915. Green lanyards are now  worn by cadets who have passed the gold star exam.

Cadet cloth shoulder titles. Titles in top row adopted c1973-76. The middle title is worn by the Capreol Irish detachment. Another with the wording THE IRISH REGIMENT OF CANADA/2915 is now worn. The last pattern cloth title worn by the regiment. Continued to be worn by the 2964 Walden Irish up to the end of 2021, when stocks of the titles became depleted. A new title similar in shape, size and with the same wording as the old pattern was adopted, but has yellow letters on green, with a  green embroidered border, bottom right.

Collar badges worn on the scarlet jacket, by 2915 Capreol Irish RCACC. Appear to be KC Royal Ulster Constabulary collar badges. And seem to have been in wear since 2017. Its unclear why these collars are being worn. (Detachment FB page).

Battle Honours

ARRAS 1917, 18; HILL 70; Ypres 1917; AMIENS; SCARPE 1918; DROCOURT-QUEANT; HINDENBURG LINE; CANAL du NORD; PURSUIT to MONS; FRANCE AND FLANDERS 1917-18; LIRI VALLEY; MELFA CROSSING; GOTHIC LINE; MONTECCHIO; CORIANO; LAMONE CROSSING; Fosso Munio; Conventello-Comacchio; ITALY 1943-45; IJSSELMEER; DELFZIJL POCKET; NORTH-WEST EUROPE 1945.

Regimental green caubeen, cap badge and green hackle. Officer's blue, along side OR's green hackle. These are worn on the caubeen, a green beret is worn with working dress, without a hackle. The blue hackle was adopted in 1944, prior to this officer's wore a white over green bristle brush.