Brigadier K.D. Blackader
Royal Highlanders of Canada (The Black Watch)
8th Infantry Brigade

Throughout the initial and subsequent phases, Brigadier Blackader ceaselessly and tirelessly fought his brigade with skill and great determination. Without regard to his person, he visited all his units and by his word and deed was an inspiration to his command. Brigadier Blackader’s example is worthy of the best traditions of the army.

(D.S.O. citation, 31 Aug 1944)

Born on 19 December 1898 in Montreal, Kenneth Gault Blackader enlisted in 1916 as a lieutenant in a reinforcing draft for the Royal Highlanders of Canada. He joined the 13th Battalion in France, was wounded in September 1918, and earned the Military Cross. He became commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, Royal Highlanders of Canada in 1934 and was elevated to regimental commandant of the Black Watch in 1938. The next year he reverted to take the 1st Battalion overseas following mobilization.

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