Plough Jockey magazine is published twice a year; in the spring and in the fall. Regimental activities and histories are published as well as articles on Canadian defence in general. We now have an online version - view Plough Jockey online.

The name 'Plough Jockey' came from World War II when the RCR, Hasty P's, and 48th Highlanders formed the first brigade. Members of the Hastings & Prince Edward Regiment were referred to as 'plough jockeys' because of their rural roots. Many Hasty P's joined the Regiment straight off the farm and didn't find the nickname insulting. They adopted it and the Regimental association's tabloid for years after the war was titled 'The Plough Jockey'. The first part 'the Regiment' comes from Farley Mowat's book on the unit's World War II history by that name.

Corporal Mark Robert McLaren passed away on Friday, December 5, 2008 at the age of 23. Mark, loved partner of Michelle-Anne Shaw. Beloved son of Alan and Annie McLaren and step-son of Joanne McLaren. Dear brother of Miles McLaren, grandson of Sally Neilsen, and Ida and the late Ross White. Loved and sadly missed by his many friends and family members.

Once again I am pleased to report on your Executives activities over the past few months. Reunion 2007 was very successful with 131 sharing dinner and fun times. We were also blessed with our Afghanistan service returning soldiers amongst us.

At our Regimental Birthday church parade held March 9, 2008, we were pleased to have 64 serving soldiers join us for this celebration. This was something we had all hoped would take place and now it has. Due to terrible weather conditions, some members were unable to dig out in time to attend. The reception held in the Senior Ranks Mess was also well attended and enjoyed by all.

Over the past year we have had a major influx of serving soldiers join the Regimental Association. We welcome them with open arms. My personal thanks to the C.O. for making this happen. I plan on asking some of these soldiers to serve on Association committees which will infuse new blood and bring ideas into our planning as well as educate them on how we operate.

Our Annual President's Golf Day is being planned for July 6, 2008. A notice will be sent out to all when everything is finalized.

The Landing in Sicily Day will be held on July 10, 2008. invites will be extended to the RCR and 48th Associations. Again, a notice will be sent out to all when plans are finalized.

Reunion 2008 will be a two (2) day event this year held on Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19, 2008. More details will be sent later.

As you can see, we are keeping busy, so keep well, all of you!

PARATUS!
Howard S. Adamson,
President

The Regiment was honoured to be visited by HRH Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex on June 4 and 5, 2005. A busy schedule of events included a reception, visiting with the members of the Regiment, a review of the Hasty P Cadet Corps, and a field exercise with the Regiment on Sunday.

This year's '402 Training Group' spring exercise took place March 26, 27, and 28 at Fort Drum, U.S.A. The focus of this exercise was OBUA (or FIBUA as it was once known). OBUA stands for Operations in Built Up Areas and Fort Drum has an ideal location for this purpose consisting of multiple story buildings with a variety of design styles and even an underground section.

The U.S. military was as hospitable as always to their northern visitors as they made all their facilities available and even provided a very active and competent enemy force. The Exercise was attended by Honorary Colonel T. Bata, who toured admin and OBUA practice areas.

On May 31 The Regiment visited Fort Wellington and Crysler's farm where the last serious American attempt to invade Canada was frustrated by an outnumbered mixed force in one of the only 'open field' European style battles fought by Canada and the fledging United States of America.

On the Canadian side was a mixed army of British regulars augmented by Voltigeurs, Canadian Fencibles, about 30 Mohawk Indians, the Dundas County Militia, and 3 guns; all led by LCol Joseph W Morrison. The American force consisted of about 4000 poorly trained troops suffering from hunger and cold led by General Brown.

On the morning of November 11, Morrison sent skirmishers to scout and harass the American camp. In response, General Boyd deployed his two brigades in the fields of John Crysler's farm and met Morrison's main body. After a see-saw battle, Boyd attempted to attack Morrison's flank with dragoons and was soundly repulsed. This demoralizing turn of events caused the Americans to lose heart and they retreated from the field. The loss of this battle combined with a resounding defeat dealt to General Hampton at the battle of Chateaugay spelled the end of American hopes to take Canada quickly.