CANAL DU NORD

The battle honour “Canal du Nord” represents one of the most brilliant and tactically daring operations of the First World War fought by the 2nd Battalion, CEF (the “Iron Second”), whose proud lineage and battle honours are officially perpetuated by the Governor General’s Foot Guards.
The Obstacle: On the morning of September 27, 1918, the 1st Canadian Division was tasked with crossing the Canal du Nord. In the sector chosen for the attack, the canal was still under construction and dry, but it remained a formidable barrier—forming a wide, flat, hard-packed mud field completely devoid of cover.
The Windstorm of Fire: After waiting patiently under a heavy German defensive artillery barrage, the 2nd Battalion crossed the dry canal bed in stages. As the leading companies clambered up the steep eastern bank and crested the rise, they marched directly into a blistering “windstorm of shells and bullets”.
CSM Jack’s Cool Leadership: The defensive fire was devastating. No. 1 Company was hit hardest, losing every single one of its officers in the opening rush. Displaying extraordinary initiative and courage under fire, Company Sergeant Major Jack immediately stepped up to assume command. He reorganized the scattered platoons and re-established command and control, even as several platoons had to be led by junior lance corporals.
Securing the Heights: On the right, the 72nd Battalion managed a breakthrough, capturing their objective and rolling up the German trenches from the flank. Seizing the moment, No. 1 and No. 4 Companies pushed forward to gain significant ground. Major Vanderwater then ordered them to hold and sent No. 3 Company forward to successfully capture the final objective at La Maison Neuve.
The Final Toll: While the operation was a spectacular tactical triumph that breached the Hindenburg Line, it cost the Battalion 215 casualties. This battle stands as the last major combat engagement the “Iron Second” would face before the Armistice.