About
The Regiment
ABOUT
The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada is a living piece of the city’s history forged in service, sacrifice, and community spirit.
Our Regiment has a long and proud history of volunteer service in defense of the nation.
For over a century, the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada have answered the nation’s call. Founded in Vancouver on November 24, 1910, by the local Scottish community, the Regiment was built on tradition, service, and duty.
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From the World Wars to modern missions in Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Latvia, the Seaforths have earned 42 battle honours and a legacy of sacrifice and leadership. Tens of thousands have worn the badge, carrying forward a proud commitment to Canada’s future.
We were the first to liberate Amsterdam in WW2
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Located at the Seaforth Armoury on Burrard Street in Vancouver, the Regiment continues to train as infantry soldiers and provide reserve personnel for operations at home and abroad.
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The Regiment is more than a military unit.
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It is a proud family of citizens united by shared values, discipline, and tradition. The friendships formed within the Regimental Family are rooted in Seaforth heritage and often last a lifetime.
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Membership in the Regiment continues to grow, carrying forward a spirit of service that has endured for over one hundred years.
History That Defines Us...
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The Seaforth That Faced Impossible Odds
Private Ernest “Smokey” Smith, a Seaforth Highlanders legend and Victoria Cross recipient, once faced 30 enemy soldiers and two tanks alone...and held the line.
His courage, determination, and unwavering commitment reflect who we are: a Regiment built on bravery, service, and standing strong against any challenge.
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We hold where others falter.
We Mastered Modern Urban Combat
Street by bloody street at Ortona, the Seaforths fought one of World War II’s fiercest urban battles.
Guided by a culture of smarter soldiering and bold initiative, we pioneered new techniques to clear streets, houses, and apartments. These tactics continue to shape urban combat training for armies around the world today.
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We are studied worldwide on our ability to adapt and overcome.
Seaforths Took The Unconquerable Hill
Three nations tried and failed.
British, Australian, and New Zealand forces had already paid dearly in blood, unable to capture the key objective at Crest Farm during the Battle of Passchendaele.
Then the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada struck. Against relentless fire and impossible odds, we stormed the hill, took it, and held it.
We succeed where others have failed.
Our Tradition Spans 750 Years
The Seaforth Highlanders carry centuries of Scottish tradition woven into every parade, uniform, and ceremony.
Our motto, “Cuidich’n Righ”, first used 750 years ago, means “Help the King” and comes from the Mackenzie Clan, whose tartan we proudly wear, a clan that once did exactly that.
You could even say we were once the bodyguards of Scottish kings.
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The first Canadian Seaforths came from the original Scottish regiment, which has since vanished. Today, the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada alone carry the name and its proud traditions, keeping this heritage alive in Canada.
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For over a century, we have made our mark in Vancouver, building a legacy of courage, service, and community. We celebrate not only our Canadian achievements but also the living stories and traditions passed down through generations from the Scottish Highlands.
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Explore a history that spans centuries and continents where ancient customs meet modern heroism, and discover the enduring spirit, pride, and resilience of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada.
