Members of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, known for their resilience and unwavering commitment during times of adversity and racism, were celebrated at the annual Remembrance Ceremony held in Nova Scotia. Minister Fraser, on behalf of Ministers Ginette Petitpas Taylor and Bill Blair, announced an investment exceeding $124,000 for five new projects in Nova Scotia. These initiatives are designed to enhance education, remembrance, and the commemoration of the battalion and their families.

The funding will support the creation of a new memorial, development of exhibits, organization of community events, and financing of research projects. These endeavors are dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, recognized as the first and only all-Black battalion-sized formation in Canadian military history.

The ceremony coincides with a significant moment of recognition following the historic apology issued by the Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence in July 2022 to descendants of the battalion. Leading up to this apology, the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) collaborated with the National Apology Advisory Committee (NAAC), which outlined eight recommendations to ensure the meaningful impact of the apology on descendants of the No. 2 Construction Battalion.

Taylor underscored the contributions of the battalion, stating, “During times of war, conflict, and peace, Canadians have answered the call to serve their country. The sacrifices made by members of the No. 2 Construction Battalion and their families have been egregiously overlooked.” She emphasized that through these initiatives, the government aims to foster recognition and deepen understanding of the challenges faced by many Black Canadians who served amidst discrimination during the First World War.

Blair added, “Members of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, along with their families and descendants, rightfully deserve acknowledgment for the sacrifices they made in service to Canada.”

Established on July 5, 1916, as part of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), the No. 2 Construction Battalion, also known as the Black Battalion, made significant contributions during World War I. Despite their pivotal role, the unit was disbanded on September 15, 1920, without ceremony or official recognition for their service to Canada.

For the fiscal year 2024-25, DND/CAF has earmarked $250,000 in dedicated funding to address one of the NAAC’s recommendations. This funding, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Commemorative Partnership Program (CPP), aims to expand opportunities for education, remembrance, and honoring of the No. 2 Construction Battalion.

In addition, DND/CAF has committed an additional $2 million over the next four years to the CPP, further supporting commemorative projects aimed at honoring the enduring legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion.