The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada

The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada (QOR) was established in 1860, making it one of Canada’s oldest continuous reserve regiments. Formed in Toronto as a volunteer rifle battalion, the unit was created during a time of increasing tension in North America, with the mandate to provide a well-trained, fast-moving local defence force. Its designation as a rifle regiment set it apart from line infantry, emphasizing marksmanship, light infantry tactics, and independent action—traditions that continue today.

The regiment first saw active service during the Fenian Raids, deploying in defence of southern Ontario. In 1885, it took part in the North-West Rebellion, fighting at the Battle of Cut Knife and participating in the relief of Battleford, marking its early contributions to national operations.

During the First World War, members of the regiment served in numerous Canadian Expeditionary Force battalions, including the storied 3rd Battalion (Toronto Regiment) and the 83rd and 166th Battalions, many of which carried QOR identity and traditions overseas. Riflemen fought in major engagements across the Western Front, sustaining heavy casualties but earning a reputation for professionalism and resilience.

In the Second World War, the regiment mobilized as a full battalion and landed on D-Day, 6 June 1944, at Juno Beach—one of the first Canadian units to hit the shore. The Queen’s Own Rifles fought through Normandy, the Scheldt, and into Germany until the end of the war, cementing its place as one of Canada’s most decorated reserve regiments.

Postwar, the QOR continued to support Canadian missions around the world. Riflemen deployed to UN and NATO operations in places such as Cyprus, Bosnia, and Afghanistan, while the regiment also provided soldiers for domestic emergencies, major event security, and national response operations.

Today, The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada serves as a light infantry regiment within 32 Canadian Brigade Group, maintaining its rifle traditions, distinctive green uniform facings, and motto “In Pace Paratus” (“In Peace Prepared”). With more than 160 years of service, the QOR remains one of Canada’s most historic and operationally engaged reserve infantry units.