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1934 Annual Inspection

Throughout the inter-war years there was an annual inspection in October or November. The senior staff of the 25th Infantry Brigade and Military District No. 2 came to Oshawa for the day. One such example was in 1934 and was well-documented by the Oshawa Daily Times.

The inspecting officers in 1934 included Brigadier Victor Anderson, DSO, commander of Military District No. 2 and Colonel Frank Chappell, commander of the 25th Infantry Brigade. Colonel Chappell was previously the commanding officer of the Ontario Regiment.

The 1934 inspection took place on October 20. “C” Company from Whitby and “D” Company from Cannington joined “A”, “B” and Headquarters companies at the Oshawa Armoury. The Regiment’s 250 members formed up in the Armoury for a ceremonial review and inspection. Next, the Regiment marched out of the Armoury and past the reviewing officer on Richmond Street West. The Oshawa Daily Times noted that, “A large crowd of interested citizens witnessed this ceremony, commenting very favorably on the appearance of all ranks.”

The march-past for the reviewing officer. Photo from the Oshawa Daily Times.
The Regimental signaler section, commanded by Lieutenant A. Freeman. Photo from Oshawa Daily Times.

The highlight of the day was a brief tactical exercise at College Avenue on the properties of the Hinkston and Mallett families. The newspaper indicated that this location was the at the city limits. These properties are now covered by Highway 401, just east of Park Road.

Soldiers take up a position during the field exercise. At first glance the soldier at left appears to be firing a Lewis gun, based on the shape of the magazine. A closer look shows that the weapon is actually made of wood. It’s a typical sign of the budget constraints of the 1930s and resultant creativity required to carry out training. Photo from Oshawa Daily Times.

The exercise was completed at dusk and the Regiment marched back to the Armoury where supper was served. The members of “D” Company and some of “C” Company slept at the Armoury that night to be on site for the annual church parade the next day.

The Colour Party for the church parade, from left: Sergeant D. Jones, Lieutenant Duncan McIntyre, Sergeant William McNeill MM, Lieutenant J. Hanshaw, Sergeant H. Turner

Regimental Chaplain, Captain (Reverend) S.C. Jarrett led the service at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, where he also served as the rector. The Regimental Colours were paraded to the church. The weekend wrapped up with a reception in the Officer’s Mess for the Regiment’s officers and their guests.

Colonel Chappell visited the Regiment about a week later for the regular Monday parade night. He addressed the Regiment, minus “D” Company, and reviewed the tactical exercise, noting the mistakes made, while highlighting successes in solving the problems presented. Colonel Chappell complimented the Regiment on a fine showing at the inspection with special emphasis on the regimental band, bugle band, stretcher bearers and signallers.