Two cavalry riders on thoroughbred and quarter horses, dressed in First World War-era uniforms with Lee Enfield rifles and 1905 sabres, took part in a parade at CFB Edmonton on June 19, 2026. The event marked the formal establishment of 1 Signal Regiment as a key operational unit within 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group.
Mounted Troop Preserves Regimental Roots
The horse troop comes from Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians), a regular armoured regiment based at CFB Edmonton. The regiment's roots were formed by Donald Alexander Smith, first Baron Strathcona and Mount Royal. Master Cpl. Callum Duke, 30, from Sooke, B.C., now in his third year with the mounted unit, described the experience: “The regimental tradition goes straight back to our roots.”
Duke rode the thoroughbred Spitfire, wearing leather Strathcona boots, a wool jacket, and riding breeches, with a Brody helmet secured on his saddle. He noted that members typically serve four to five years in the troop, but key positions like ride master and attack master often stay longer—up to 11 and 10 years respectively. “It’s a phenomenal place for guys who need to take a step away from regimental life, get their chance to relax again before going back to the regiment to continue with their duties and going overseas,” Duke said.
Training and Public Engagement
New members undergo a six-month ride course covering zoonotic diseases, equine psychology, bareback riding, English saddle, snaffle bit, and show techniques. Cpl. Kyle Leis, from Red Deer, Alberta, rode Sarge, a quarter horse born in Radway, Alberta. Leis, whose father is a rodeo judge, had only trail riding experience before starting the course in October 2025. “He’s a very, very forward horse. He wants to run all the time, really. So he was a bit of a challenge,” Leis said.
The mounted troop currently has 20 members and 20 horses. Recent appearances include the Spruce Meadows horse jumping competition near Calgary. Leis emphasized the historical value: “I think it’s a good way to remember the past and remember what Canada did in our wars, our role that we played in history, because we don’t get a lot of exposure when it comes to Canadian contributions in the wars. Showing up to the public in a World War One uniform really gets people thinking and interested.”
Historical Context
The Strathconas served in Korea, Afghanistan, and other conflicts. By World War Two, modern warfare led the regiment to trade horses for tanks. The mounted troop now serves as a ceremonial reminder of Canada's cavalry heritage.
