New stamps celebrate 150 years of military service in Canada

OTTAWA, Oct. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - As early as 1862, militia regiments were being organized in what was to become Canada, at a time when Americans to the south were engaged in Civil War. In fact there are several regiments still active today that can trace their history prior to Confederation. Canada Post has created a new stamp issue to salute three of these regiments as well as honour them collectively for 150 years of military service.

The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada was founded in Montreal in 1862 as the 5^th Battalion, Volunteer Militia Rifles of Canada. Tens of thousands of Canadians have served in Canada's Black Watch in foreign wars, United Nations peacekeeping and stabilization missions, NATO interventions and crises at home. Its distinguishing emblem, The Red Hackle, is proudly worn as a symbol of tradition, duty and sacrifice.

The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, was also founded in 1862. "The Rileys" have served Canada in active duty at war, in peacekeeping efforts and in relief work at home. Originally known as the 13^th Battalion Volunteer Militia (Infantry), it merged with the Wentworth Regiment in 1936 to become The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (Wentworth Regiment).

In 1861, a group of Torontonians, fearing invasion from the south, raised a volunteer battalion that would lead to the formation of The Royal Regiment of Canada. This regiment would go on to serve Canada proudly in battle on three continents, and serve in peacekeeping missions around the world. The Volunteer Militia Rifles formed in 1862 and became the Royal Regiment of Canada in 1939.

"The three regiments honoured on these stamps have served Canada at home and abroad through many critical events in our history", said the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport). "These stamps are an excellent way to salute The Black Watch, The Rileys, The Royal Regiment of Canada, and the men and women of these regiments, for their bravery and their sacrifice for Canada."

"These stamps focus on the evolution of the uniforms and symbols that stand for the three regiments, added Deepak Chopra, President and CEO at Canada Post. This approach emphasizes the remarkable breadth of their service to Canada through the history of our nation."

About the stamp
The three stamps measure 40 mm X 30 mm (horizontal).They are pressure sensitive with simulated perforations, printed by Lowe-Martin using lithography in 7 colours on Tullis Russell paper. A souvenir sheet of 3 stamps is also available. It is 160 mm X 75 mm (horizontal) with 13+ perforations. The stamps are available in booklets of 10. Three official first day covers are available, cancelled in Montreal, Hamilton and Toronto.

Additional information about Canadian stamps can be found in the news section of Canada Post's website, and photos of these new stamps are also available. Stamps and other products will be available at participating post offices, or can be ordered online by following the links at canadapost.ca/collecting, or by mail order from the National Philatelic Centre. From Canada and the USA, call toll-free 1-800-565-4362, and from other countries, call 902-863-6550.

SOURCE: Canada Post