The Irish Regiment of Canada Second Battalion, regarded as a cornerstone of military heritage and community service, is months away from celebrating its milestone 110th anniversary.
This momentous occasion will be marked by a gala event on March 15 at the Sudbury Armoury, honouring more than “a century of dedication, bravery and military service to Canada,” said a regimental news release.
Founded in 1915, the Irish Regiment of Canada has a storied history of contributions to Canada’s military efforts, from the battlefields of the First World War, the intense fighting in Italy and northwest Europe in the Second World War, to peacekeeping missions and disaster response at home and abroad.
Although the regiment was founded in Toronto at the height of the First World War, it was eventually moved north.
Fifty years after the creation of the regiment, on March 15, 1965, it was amalgamated with the 58th (Sudbury) Field Artillery Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery.
The artillery unit was then converted to infantry and redesignated the 2nd Battalion, The Irish Regiment of Canada (Sudbury), said the Government of Canada official history of regiments.
This milestone anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the regiment’s enduring legacy and its deep connection to the Sudbury community, said the release.
The gala will bring together veterans, serving members, community leaders and supporters to commemorate the regiment’s achievements and honour the sacrifices of those who served.
The evening will feature a formal dinner and inspiring speeches that celebrate the past, present and future of the Irish Regiment.
"This anniversary is not just a celebration of the regiment’s history but a testament to the spirit of service and resilience that defines our members and the community we serve," said Abbas Homayed, Honorary Colonel of the Regiment.
"We are thrilled to share this milestone with everyone in the community. Sudburians have been steadfast supporters of our regiment throughout its history."
Honourary Lt. Col. Sara Cunningham said the regiment represents important values in the community.
“This anniversary is a moment to honour the men and women who have worn the uniform with pride. For over a century, the Irish Regiment of Canada has stood as a symbol of resilience, loyalty, and service to both our nation and our community.”
Commanding officer Lt.-Col. Kirk Langdon is pleased to see the regiment reach the milestone.
“Celebrating our historical milestones aids greatly in supporting our regimental spirit. It provides an opportunity to focus on the great accomplishments of those that were in the regiment before us,” he said.
“With that it is a source of inspiration to live up to that standard. From the anecdotes and creative methods used to achieve success and the way everyone supported a common goal it provides a link to the regimental spirit that was and that we continue to perpetuate. We will be unveiling the Regimental colours of our perpetuating units, some of which are over 100 years
old, to provide a tangible link to those regiments.”
The 110th-anniversary celebrations aim to raise awareness of the regiment’s role in shaping Canada’s military heritage while fostering connections with the next generation of Canadians, said the release.
Tickets for the gala are available for $75 or $600 a table of eight. Friends and supporters can click on this link to purchase tickets.
For more information or to learn how you can support the Irish Regiment’s 110th-anniversary celebrations, contact Brian Mckenelley at [email protected].