LAPEL PIN NO. 2 CONSTRUCTION BATTALION

When the First World War began in 1914, Canadians from across the country lined up to enlist. Hundreds of these selfless volunteers were young Black men, but due to racism on behalf of Commanding Offices, many were denied the honour of serving their country. They persevered however, and two years later on July 5th, 1916, the No. 2 Construction Battalion was authorized. It was Canada’s first and only Black battalion.

The Royal Canadian Legion is proud to present this commemorative lapel pin honouring the men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion. The silhouettes of the battalion men are found in the centre of the pin wielding the tools they were given. The trees on either side of the soldiers represent the forests they were deployed to in southeast France.

A special thank you goes to Ena Maxam for working with us on this project.

Photos shown are reproduced courtesy of MUSEUM WINDSOR/P6110 and 
LT.-COL. D.H. SUTHERLAND COLLECTION, RIVER JOHN, N.S.