Royal Westminster Regiment To Publish Historical Records

VANCOUVER, BC (PRWEB) July 26, 2012

The Royal Westminster Regiment, the oldest active military unit in British Columbia, is marking its 150-year history of service with the publication of a pictorial history of the regiment. The New Westminster Volunteer Rifles, predecessor to The Royal Westminster Regiment, were granted authority by Governor Douglas on November 20, 1863.

The book, which is available to pre-order now and will go on general sale at the beginning of 2013, is a major legacy contribution of The Westies C150 committee spearheaded by Honorary Colonel Karen Baker-MacGrotty. The volunteer book team, coordinated by Sergeant Harley, has assembled a comprehensive collection of photographs, facts, memorabilia and records, many of which are being published for the first time. Included will be over 100 pages of embarkation rolls from the Boer War and both World Wars which will be of particular interest to military historians. In addition to enlistment specifics, each entry includes personal details of value to genealogists.

The hard cover book, printed in full colour, will acknowledge sponsors and supporters in the Preface. Enthusiasts can support the book project at three levels. Major Book Sponsors who contribute or $ 500 or more will receive two limited edition, numbered volumes, each in a custom slipcase. For $ 150, Book Supporters will receive one numbered edition. The Honorary Colonel and the book project team will present books to sponsors and supporters at a VIP launch scheduled for November. A standard edition is also available for pre-ordering for $ 80. The book is being published by Vivalogue Canada and can be pre-ordered online at http://www.vivalogue.ca until September 7, 2012.

We are pleased to contribute to the pictorial record of Canadian military history, said Colonel Baker-MacGrotty. With a fighting Westie spirit and incredible record of duty, tradition and service commencing before Confederation, the book will be of interest to readers of all ages and backgrounds. As The Royal Westminster Regiment celebrates 150 years of valiant military service of building and protecting our community, our country and on overseas missions, this book is produced as a tribute to all our brave men and women who have served our country with such distinction.