THIS DAY IN RMR HISTORY, 22 September 1914 – “Following the Duke of Connaught’s farewell review, last Sunday, [the 20th] re-attestation of the men for overseas service was expedited, as the day when the Contingent must sail was fast approaching. No sailing date was publicly announced, but all news from the camp was suddenly censored and this was correctly interpreted by the Canadian people to mean that the Contingent was on the move.” [2]
The Globe’s correspondent reported in his dispatch from Valcartier of the previous evening “The Minister of Militia stated tonight that 31,200 men, 7,500 horses and all the artillery and other equipment now here would go forward to England as soon as transports and convoy ships could be resolved.” [3]
[1] “31,200 Men Will Go, 19,000 To Follow,” The Globe (1844-1936), Toronto, Ontario, Tuesday, September 22, 1914, pg. 1.
[2] R.C. Featherstonhaugh, The Royal Montreal Regiment 14th Battalion C.E.F. 1914-1925, Montreal, The Gazette, Printing Co., Ltd., 1927, pg. 11.
[3] “31,200 Men Will Go, 19,000 To Follow,” The Globe (1844-1936), Toronto, Ontario, Tuesday, September 22, 1914, pg. 1.