Okanagan Mounted Rifles

In 1907, a cavalry unit called the Okanagan Mounted Rifles was formed and began training at the Vernon Military Camp in Mission Hill.

Squadrons were formed in Coldstream, Lumby, Armstrong and Kelowna.  In 1911, under the command of Major C.L. Bott, the Okanagan Mounted Rifles became the 30th Regiment, B.C. Horse.

In 1914, half the regiment became an overseas cavalry unit known as the 2nd Regiment, Canadian Mounted Rifles.

Each man in the regiment was required to pack a kit bag.  The bag was securely packed and labeled with the soldier’s name rank, squadron and regiment.  Each bag contained 1 pair boots, 3 pair socks, 2 shirts, 1 pair underpants, razor, brush and soap, hair brush and comb, plate knife fork, spoon and mug.