Historic Armoury Building Houses a Historic Military Unit
Moose Jaw has deep connections with Canadian military, not just with 15 Wing Airbase, but also with the Saskatchewan Dragoons and the historic armoury building in which the unit resides. The Saskatchewan Dragoons is a primary reserve armoured regiment of the Canadian Army. Their role is that of a reconnaissance squadron. They examine an area in preparation for the advance of a main body of troops. They go forward, sometimes many miles, and gather information on enemy strength, equipment, movements and intentions.
Members of the Saskatchewan Dragoons pose for a picture with their flag during an exercise.
They pass this information — together with other helpful information on such things as bridges, blocked roads and areas of potential danger — back to higher command so the advance can take place as safely as possible. At the same time, they deny such
Military vehicles from different eras sit in front of the historic Lt.-Col. D.V. Currie VC Armoury building, which was constructed in 1907.
information to the enemy. In the withdrawal, they maintain contact with the enemy while the main body pulls back. Thus, they often speak of their role as “first in, last out.” The federal government formed the unit in Regina in 1905 as an infantry regiment, later designating it as the 95th Regiment and then the 95th Saskatchewan Rifles. The Saskatchewan Dragoons perpetuates the 46th Battalion (South Saskatchewan), Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) and the 128th Battalion (Moose Jaw), CEF. The dragoons reside in the historic Lt.-Col. David V. Currie VC Armoury building on 1215 Main Street North. The brick structure is a recognized federal heritage building because of its historical associations and its architectural and environmental values. The federal government constructed the armoury in 1907 during the Militia and Defence
expansion program to provide permanent headquarters for militia practice and training, and it was used as a recruitment centre during both world wars. In 1986, the structure was renamed in honour of David Currie, a local officer awarded the Victoria Cross for courageous action during the invasion of Normandy, France in 1944. Inside the main hall are historic artifacts that help tell the story of the unit, from its earliest days to today as a reserve unit. There are displays dedicated to the unit’s members from the First and Second world wars and important battles such as Vimy Ridge. Scattered throughout the building are pictures of the unit over the decades, along with other fascinating heritage items that celebrate Canadian military history and the boys and men from Moose Jaw who answered the call and served their country. For more information call (306) 692-2550.
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