31 CER (The Elgins) are commemorating the 150th anniversary of Confederation with a trip to visit Lord Elgin, their Honorary Colonel. The trip recognizes the pivotal role his ancestor, Lord Elgin, played in bringing about responsible government in the Canada and in developing an early sense of Canadian identity, especially in the use of the maple leaf and the establishment of other national institutions.
As part of the Elgin Family, 31 CER (The Elgins) both serving and former members and supporters, have been invited to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo on the penultimate night of the Tattoo. The Bruce Family will be led into the Tattoo following the historic sword of Robert the Bruce, the same sword used at the battle of Bannockburn where his Scottish forces defeated the English King. The sword will be carried by specially chosen members of 31 CER (The Elgins), followed by Family members and their supporters.
31 CER (The Elgins) will be hosting an historic dinner at Cardross house, where the Colonel Commandant of the Canadian Military Engineers, BGen Steve Irwin, along with members of 31 CER (The Elgins) will host members of the Royal Engineers. This will be the first time the Colonel Commandant will be with one of his Regiments in the UK, hosting this gala dinner. The dinner will express the historical ties between the Royal Canadian Engineers and the Royal Engineers.
31 Combat Engineer Regiment (The Elgins) can trace their lineage back to the 25th Elgin Battalion of Infantry was formed in 1866. Last year, Canada Post issued a series of commemorative envelopes to honour the Elgin's 150 years of service. 31 Combat Engineer Regiment (The Elgins) was formed in 1997 when The Elgin Regiment (RCAC) was re-roled from armoured reconnaissance to combat engineering. The regiment has 2 field squadrons with 48 Field Squadron located in Waterloo and 7 Field Squadron located in St. Thomas.
