Canada responded to the outbreak of the First World War by creating the Canadian Expeditionary Force in August 1914. At the outbreak of the War, The Honourable, Sam Hughes Minister of Militia and Defence declared that the Regiments and various Corps of the pre-Canadian Expeditionary Force would not serve overseas with their unique titles, but be formed as numbered infantry battalions, some with cl
ose affiliations to the Militia units they were formed from. By the end of the War Canada had sent battalions numbering from the 1st through 260th, each comprising of approximately 1000 men. The 259th and 260th Battalions were sent to Siberia to participate in the Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force (C.S.E.F.) The 3rd (Toronto) Bn, CEF, fought in Belgium and Northern France throughout the war. Twenty-four battle honours were awarded during four years of war. Two soldiers who served with the 3rd were awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry. Corporal Colin Barron VC at Vine Cottage during the advance towards Passchendaele in 1917 and Lieutenant George Kerr, VC, MC & Bar, MM near Bourlon Wood in 1918 during the Final 100 days. They are both buried in Toronto. The 3rd Bn is perpetuated by The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and The Royal Regiment of Canada. The Governor General's Horse Guards have a close affiliation with the 3rd.
