First World War, WWI

The Regiment then became part of the Canadian Cavalry Brigade commanded by Brigadier General Seely. After the first battle of Ypres, the First Canadian Division had lost 6000 men. Brigadier General Seely was asked to provide support, but as infantry. He called a full strength parade, presented the proposal and every man volunteered.

The Regiment was in action predominantly as infantry throughout the war. After the second battle of Ypres, the Canadian Cavalry Brigade was sent to France from Belgium on 4 May 1915. Thereafter, the Regiment saw action as infantry and cavalry and was highly commended for its part in the advance on the Hindenburg Line, at Cambrai and through their domination of no-man’sland at Le Verguier. On 30 March 1918 at Moreuil Wood, the Dragoons participated in what was to be the last of the great cavalry charges.

Galloping across open ground the RCD met heavy machine gun fire. Turning into the woodline, they engaged in hand-to-hand combat clearing the woods of all enemy. At the end of the 90 minutes battle, 95 Dragoons were either killed, wounded, or missing. The Brigade overall lost 300 men and more than 800 horses.

After the cease-fire, the Dragoons remained in Belgium until March 1919. At Amiens, a table was dedicated to the Regiment for it’s part in the battle. Shortly after, The Regiment, with its new guidon returned to Canada.