By Adam Brazeau
CORNWALL, Ontario – The SD&G Highlanders are fired up and ready for 2015.
Roughly 80 people – members of the local unit and supporters – celebrated in military tradition on Saturday, Jan. 3, at the third annual New Year’s Regimental Family Levee, hosted by The Glens’ Association, at the Cornwall Armoury.
For three hours anyone with ties to the Highlanders (also known as The Glens) could drop in to the semi-formal gathering to celebrate the accomplishments of 2014.
“It’s a chance for people to get together and wish each other a happy New Year – and start off the year on a good foot,” said SD&G Highlanders Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Young.
He says a major highlight for the Cornwall-based regiment was the awarding a Theatre Honour for its participation in the war in Afghanistan.
But their numbers are down. Right now the Glens currently have roughly 80 members; whereas five years ago there were around 170. In 2014, the Highlanders focused on mentoring to have skilled trainers for new recruits. A total of 60 rifleman positions are currently available.
“It’s a rebuilding year,” said Young. “We’ve lost a lot of soldiers over the last couple of years, mostly to transfers into the army or the police.”
The military makeover that the Canadian Army uniform received was another highlight for the Highlanders. At Christmas, the naval-type rank designation on the cuffs of officers was replaced with the traditional “pips” and Crowns on the shoulder, in a nod to Canada’s past.
“It’s a return to roots, the way it should’ve been,” said Young.
