31 Signal Regiment

Graphic: Joanna Gajdicar

31 Signal Regiment is a reserve Communications unit within 31 Canadian Battle Group (31 CBG), located in both Hamilton and London Ontario. The Regiment provides expedient and reliable wired and wireless communication, using advanced voice and data systems to Canada’s military. 31 Signal Regiment was the 1st Wireless Detachment Unit in Canada, providing radio communications during the first and second World Wars, going through several name changes.

Within the regiment, there are various opportunities for new members to explore. From radio operators to line system specialists, 31 Signal Regiment is always looking for dedicated, intellectual, and fit personnel to join the Regiment. Primarily, new members parade every Thursday night (Sept-Jun) and one or two weekends a month. For the first few years, new members are required to conduct their trades training during the summertime (June-August), learning new skills that will be utilized during the part-time training year and on Exercises and Operations.

When you join our unit, you will receive competitive pay for your part time or full time work as well as be eligible for on the job training that could benefit you in civilian life. Also, there are medical, dental and educational benefits available to Army Reservists.

Here are all the details:

• Serve part time in the CAF
• Competitive pay
• On the job training
• Medical and dental benefits
• Paid education

• Commander: Lieutenant-Colonel Lisa M. Smid
• Sergeant Major: Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Spinosa

31 Signal Regiment
John Foote Armouries
200 James St N
Hamilton, ON L8R 2L1
Phone: 905-972-4008
Email: Ken.Keddy@forces.gc.ca

Although the name 705 (Hamilton) Communication Squadron is relatively new, the history of military signalling in Hamilton began over 85 years ago, when the 1st Wireless Detachment, CE was form in 1912. This was the only militia radio unit in the Canadian Army until the outbreak of World War I.

After the war, the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals (which had first been established in 1903 as the Canadian Signalling Corps) established a Militia component (called the Canadian Corps of Signals) in 1920.A Hamilton company was formed, and was known as the 14th Company, 2nd Battalion, CCS. Its administrative headquarters was in Toronto, and the first CO of the Battalion was LCol Malloch, a native Hamiltonian.