Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians)

Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) is one of Canada’s most senior and renowned armoured regiments, originally raised in 1900 by Donald Smith, Lord Strathcona, for service in the South African War. Since then, the regiment has served with distinction in the First and Second World Wars and on numerous modern operations, including NATO and United Nations missions. Their long record of service reflects a proud tradition of adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to duty, both in combat and ceremonial roles.

The regiment’s full dress uniform is among the most recognizable in the Canadian Army. It features a scarlet tunic, dark blue trousers with a yellow stripe, and the iconic helmet worn by Strathconas on ceremonial occasions. This distinctive headdress, unique among Canadian regiments, traces its origins to mounted service and sets Lord Strathcona’s Horse apart on parade, particularly during high-profile duties such as the King’s Life Guard in London.

This appearance marks the second time Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) has undertaken the King’s Life Guard duties in London, a rare honour that highlights the regiment’s close ceremonial ties to the Crown and its respected place within the Commonwealth military tradition.

Flowerdew's Great Charge!

Lieutenant Gordon Muriel Flowerdew, VC holds a special place in the history of Lord Strathcona’s Horse and Canadian military heritage.

Born in England in 1885 and later emigrating to Canada, Flowerdew was serving with Lord Strathcona’s Horse during the First World War when he performed the action for which he would be awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy. On 30 March 1918, during the German Spring Offensive near Moreuil Wood in France, Flowerdew led his mounted troop in a direct cavalry charge against entrenched German machine-gun positions. Despite overwhelming fire and knowing the extreme danger, he pressed the attack, disrupting the enemy advance at a critical moment.

Mortally wounded during the charge, Gordon Flowerdew died the following day. His courage and leadership are remembered as one of the last great cavalry charges in modern warfare, and his Victoria Cross remains the only VC awarded to Lord Strathcona’s Horse. Flowerdew’s legacy endures as a symbol of selfless bravery, decisive leadership, and the regiment’s proud fighting spirit—qualities that continue to define the Strathconas to this day.