Reception in Honour of the Devil's Brigade
In December 1944, the Devil's Brigade was disbanded, and its members were scattered among other battalions.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-008
Upon his arrival to the Parliament, where a reception in honour of the Devil's Brigade took place, the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada was greeted by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Defence.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-001
Officially called the 1st Special Service Force, the Devil's Brigade was created in 1942. It was composed of Canadian and Americain soldiers. Originally, this force was intended to be a parachute unit that would land behind enemy lines and sabotage their installations. Instead, it became a versatile assault group with a reputation for specialized reconnaissance and raiding.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-005
"The members of this unique combat unit—popularly known as the “Devil’s Brigade”— served with great bravery and distinction in the Second World War. This unit was unique for the pioneering role it played in the establishment of special operations forces in Canada and the United States, and also for being composed of both Canadian and American soldiers. In this, the First Special Service Force is a shining example of co-operation among Allied soldiers in the war, and a lasting symbol of trust between our two countries."
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-007
Minister MacKay congratulated the veterans.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-010
The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, presented certificates to each veteran.
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The American Ambassador David Jacobson delivered remarks on the occasion.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-014
During the reception, the Governor General had the chance to speak to the veterans.
Sun, 01/27/2013 - 12:00 Sgt Ronald Duchesne, Rideau Hall GG2013-0063-023