Lieutenant Colonel W.H. Bruce
173rd (Canadian Highlanders) Battalion

A very good officer well qualified and with many years experience in the Militia. He is tactful, popular with all ranks and fitted for command. He has organized and trained a battalion which does him credit.

(Maj. Gen. Lessard, Inspection Report, 12 Oct 1916)

Born on 26 May 1870 in Hamilton, Ontario, Walter Hamilton Bruce was a seed merchant and militia officer. He had belonged to the 13th Royal Regiment for 14 years and the 91st Highlanders for nine years. In February 1916, Bruce began to organize the 173rd Battalion from his hometown.   Continue reading →