Written by Jenny Hagan, WestCentralOnline.com
In Canadian military tradition, Regimental Colours are among the most important ceremonial symbols associated with a regiment. Image via Blaine Mcleod MLA
A significant piece of Saskatchewan’s military history has returned to the Legislative Building in Regina, where the Royal Regina Rifles’ historic Regimental Colours are once again on public display.
The Colours, which represent four Saskatchewan battalions that served during the First World War, were returned to their original display location in the building’s Rotunda during a special ceremony attended by provincial dignitaries and military representatives.
The ceremony included Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre, Premier Scott Moe, Provincial Military Liaison Blaine McLeod, members of the Royal Regina Rifles and invited guests.
The Regimental Colours were originally displayed in the Legislative Building until 1977, when they were moved to St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral in Regina, the regiment’s church.
They remained at the cathedral until renovations in 2024 required their removal.
Their return to the Legislature restores public access to an important symbol of Saskatchewan’s military history.
Premier Scott Moe described the occasion as a meaningful tribute to the province’s military personnel.
“The return of the Royal Regina Rifles’ Regimental Colours to the Legislative Building is a proud and meaningful homecoming,” Moe said.
“These Colours honour Saskatchewan soldiers who served with courage and made great sacrifices in defence of our freedoms.”
Moe noted the Colours were originally presented as gifts from the people of Saskatchewan and serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of soldiers.
The returned Colours represent four historic military units: the 28th Northwest Battalion, 68th Battalion, 195th Battalion and 249th Battalion.
Royal Regina Rifles Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Barry said the Colours carry the legacy of Saskatchewan soldiers who served during some of the most devastating battles of the First World War.
Of the four battalions, only the 28th remained intact after arriving in Europe. The other three were broken up, with their soldiers assigned to reinforce other units experiencing heavy casualties.
Barry said more than 10,000 soldiers served under the 28th Battalion’s Colours during the war.
The battalion suffered approximately 6,000 casualties, including 922 soldiers killed in action.
“These four regiments’ Colours are more than the treasured artefacts of those famous regiments,” Barry said.
He emphasized the importance of preserving their history and ensuring future generations understand the contributions of Saskatchewan soldiers.
In Canadian military tradition, Regimental Colours are among the most important ceremonial symbols associated with a regiment.
They feature military crests, badges and battle honours earned through service, representing the history, identity and achievements of the soldiers who served under them.
The Royal Regina Rifles maintains and holds the Colours of the 28th, 68th and 195th Battalions and has custody of those belonging to the 249th Battalion.
Their return to the Legislative Building provides residents and visitors with an opportunity to see these historic symbols and reflect on Saskatchewan’s contributions to Canada’s military history.
The display also ensures the service and sacrifices of soldiers from across the province, including those who left small Saskatchewan communities to serve overseas, remain part of the province’s shared history.
With the Colours once again occupying their original home, the Saskatchewan Legislative Building continues its role in preserving and honouring the province’s military heritage.
