Fusiliers de Mont-Royal (D-64208) – Canadian Raincape / Poncho 1942

Original WWII Canadian raincape/poncho, bearing the service number D-64208, attributed to a member of the Fusiliers de Mont-Royal. This example represents the rare green-coloured pattern, seldom encountered today. Constructed from heavy canvas with a rubberized waterproof coating on the exterior, the piece remains remarkably supple and well-preserved, showing normal traces of field use, one damage and a missing button. Clearly maker-marked “B.F.G.” and dated 1942, it also bears the Canadian Broad Arrow acceptance mark. No research has been conducted into the original owner, leaving an appealing opportunity for further historical investigation into this Fusiliers de Mont-Royal soldier. The poncho was basic equipment for every soldier, the cape was stored in the small-pack.

A hard-to-find original green Canadian raincape/groundsheet in good used condition.

Regimental History – Les Fusiliers de Mont-Royal:
Battle Honours: Dieppe; Bourguébus Ridge; St. André-sur-Orne; Verrières Ridge–Tilly-la-Campagne; Falaise; Falaise Road; The Laison; Forêt de la Londe; Dunkirk, 1944; Antwerp–Turnhout Canal; The Scheldt; Woensdrecht; South Beveland; The Rhineland; The Hochwald; Xanten; The Rhine; Groningen; Oldenburg; North-West Europe, 1942, 1944–1945.

The regiment’s most famous action came during the tragic yet heroic Raid on Dieppe on 19 August 1942, where it played a central role as part of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. The Fusiliers de Mont-Royal suffered heavy losses during the raid, an event which remains a defining moment in the regiment’s history and in the broader story of Canada’s wartime sacrifice.

Returning to France in July 1944, the regiment landed on 7 July as part of the 6th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. From that point forward, the Fusiliers de Mont-Royal fought continuously throughout the campaign in North-West Europe, distinguishing themselves in numerous hard-fought engagements — including Bourguébus Ridge, Verrières Ridge, Falaise, The Scheldt, The Rhineland, and The Hochwald, among others.

Their advance carried them through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, culminating in the final operations across Germany at Xanten, Groningen, and Oldenburg. Throughout these campaigns, the Fusiliers earned a reputation for courage, endurance, and steadfast service under fire.