What a wonderful year it is to be a Dragoon!
As I look back on this 125th year of the RCD, I recall a great number of
events that should make us all very proud. First and foremost, of course, is the
fine work that those in the Regiment are doing: from D Squadron, which is
currently deployed, to others in the Regiment who assisted them in their
training to get them ready for that deployment – all did (and continue to do) a
great job!
I am also happy to report that, during recent visits to Petawawa and
Gagetown, the initial preparations for B Squadron’s deployment in the Fall of 2009
and the re-establishing of C Squadron as part of 2 RCR Battle Group are
progressing quite well according to plan. I have also heard of some great things
being done by Dragoons serving outside the Regiment, both overseas and at
various headquarters and units elsewhere in Canada.
Of course, this past year also had a variety of 125th Birthday celebrations,
from the marvellous parade on Parliament Hill in June to a number of
successful Garrison Visits. During this past month alone, I was pleased to
participate in Association events in the Atlantic, Kingston and Ottawa Chapters as
they held events to mark the Regiment’s 125th Birthday. I know that other
Association Chapters (and smaller gatherings of Dragoons across the land and
around the world) are also marking the occasion in their own way.
It is my great pleasure to wish everyone a 125th Happy Birthday! Yes indeed
- what a wonderful year it is to be a Dragoon!
I also hope that all Dragoons will enjoy a safe and very Merry Christmas,
followed by a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. All the very best for
2009 …
Mike
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Colonel (retired) Michael Appleton, CD
Colonel of the Regiment
The Royal Canadian Dragoons