Canadian Expeditionary Force
World War One (1914-1918)
The Call to War After giving an
ultimatum to Germany, Britain declares war on August 4, 1914
Canada follows suit as a member of the British empire
Mobilization
Canada only had 3100 permanent troops in 1914.
Began looking for 20000 volunteers on August 8.
40000 volunteered and the Minister of Militia refused to enroll more recruits for 1st contingent.
Minister of Militia and Defence Sir Sam Hughes
(1853-1921)President of Dominion Rifle
Association Recommended Ross
Rifle for Cdn. Militia Mobilized 1st Cdn.
contingent
Ross Rifle
Issued to all recruits More suited to
hunting and target practice
Tended to jam in mud and when used with British ammunition
Training Camp
Valcartier, Quebec 16 miles West of Quebec City One day march to transports Housed 32000 recruits
Valcartier, Quebec
Bathing at Valcartier
Kitchen Facilities
Valcartier Training Camp
Canadian Navy transport Left Valcartier for
Quebec on foot—September 23
32 ship convoy left Gaspe on October 3, 1914
H.M.S. Olympic Arrived in
Plymouth on October 14
War Measures Act August 22, 1914 Gave government right to do any
deemed necessary “for the security, defence, peace, order and welfare of Canada”
Government had control of the economy and the transportation, and production of goods
Required registration of all immigrants of “enemy nationality”
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