WW1 Canada - 53rd Battalion CEF (Prince Albert Saskatchewan) Browning Copper Cap Badge - Blades

A small cap badge (same size as that shown in Cox), flat-backed with two original blades to the reverse. In very good condition.

The 53rd Canadian Infantry Battalion was recruited in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Military Area No.10. (Saskatchewan not becoming a separate Military District until 1917), with mobilization headquarters at Winnipeg on 15 March 1915, being authorized under General Order 86 of 1 July 1915. The 53rd Battalion was raised by 52nd Prince Albert Volunteers and the 105th Regiment (Saskatoon Fusiliers) these regiments previously having provided 150 and 255 volunteers respectively to the 11th Battalion on its formation at Camp Valcartier in August 1914. These regiments later helping raise the 65th, 95th, 188th and 232nd Battalions. Prior to embarking for England on 1 April 1916 the 53rd Battalion provided two reinforcing drafts to the CEF the first of five officers and 250 OR’s this sailing on 17 June 1915, the second of five officers and 250 OR’s on 4 September 1915. The 53rd Battalion sailed for England with 35 officers and 1063 OR's. (On 1 April 1916 Lieutenant-Colonel R.M. Dennistoun, was designated commanding officer serving until August 1st 1916). In January 1917, the 53rd Battalion amalgamated with other prairie battalions forming the 15th Reserve Battalion. The 53rd Battalion was disbanded effective 1 December 1917 under General Order 82 of 1918.

Comm BoHa (553)

Code: 68488