48th Highlanders Regimental
Association Drill Team
An Invitation from John Perkins, Chairman of the R.A. Drill Team
The following information is intended for members of the Regimental Association, and for those about to be retire from the 48th Highlanders active regiment. It is my hope that in reading what follows, you will consider joining our ranks with the Regimental Association Drill Team and maintain an affiliation with the active regiment and community as a parading highlander.
In the 1970s, I had the good fortune of joining the 48th Highlanders of Canada Regiment. My time with the regiment gave me much in the form of opportunities, personal growth and positive memories. The training, field exercises, travel including to the high Arctic and to Germany with NATO, as well as the friendships made, are things I will always appreciate and cherish, along with the pride I felt for the Regiment.
It is with this in mind that some of you may look for a way to keep your connections to the Regiment alive and to find new ways to be a proud Highlander. The Regimental Association Drill Team provides that new way forward.
We are a subunit of the Association, where we are all equals regardless of past rank held when in the regiment, as we have no rank in the guard . We lead the Regimental Association when on parade. We act as ambassadors for the regiment within the broader community, seeking alternate and new parade opportunities. There is no cost, except for the nominal annual membership fee and cost of a few personal items.
So I invite you to join us.
Faithful Forever. Dileas Gu Brath.
John Perkins
Chairman of the Drill Team
Who are we?
- The colour party of the 48th Highlanders Veterans Association and a ceremonial honour guard
- Promotors of the regiment to the public
- An alumni association of marching veterans
Why join us?
- Remaining connected to our regiment
- Honouring the past of the 48th Highland Regiment
- Camaraderie and friendship of fellow Highlanders
- Social engagement at a number of planned events for our members
- Enjoyment of the stirring sounds of the pipes and drums and marching with pride.
Who are we looking for :
- Men and women who are former 48th Highlanders
- Fit and active, able to parade 2+ km route on occasion
- Reliable and committed members
- Competent in Canadian military drill
What do we ask of you?
- Minimum of 3 parades per year, at least one being with the active regiment
- Dependable and committed to the team
- Smart turn out, kit worn as per parade protocols
- $10 annual membership fee
Parade commitments of the TEAM:
- APRIL : Act of Remembrance Parade with Regiment
- APRIL : Remembering Royal Newfoundland Regiment
- JULY : Paccino Day celebration at Belleville Armouries
- JULY : Orillia Scottish Festival
- AUGUST: Warriors Parade, CNE Toronto
- NOVEMBER: Remembrance Day Parade with Regiment
OTHER
- Change of Command, Change of RSM
- Honour guard, funerals of 48th veterans
- Participation with the 48th Highlanders of Holland Pipes & Drums during Dutch Liberation celebrations
What is the process for joining?
- Your application is reviewed and voted on by current membership
- Once approved, parade one year in blue blazer and grey dress pants
- Purchase a few small items (eg: regimental crest, glengarry, tie)
- After 1 year probationary period, full kit issued to you (dress whites with kilt)
Positions within the organization:
- Chairperson and Vice Chairperson (senior administrators)
- Support staff : Treasurer, Secretary, and Communications Officer (as needed)
- Colour Sergeant, Guard Drill Commander
- Colour bearers (3) and escorts (3) to the colours (FNCI rifles)
