On 26 February 2005 the Dominion Executive Council approved a recommendation by the Ritual and Awards Committee that the Red Ensign (1922-1957 version) be included in all Legion Colour Parties. The Canadian Red Ensign holds a special place in the hearts and minds of not just veterans, but Canadians from all walks of life. This particular version (there were 8) was not the one replaced by the Maple Leaf, but the one just before it, in use by Canadian troops from 1922 until 1957. It flew over Canada during World War II, the Korean War, the reigns of George V and George VI, and the Coronation of Elizabeth II. As a symbolic gesture of respect for Veterans, henceforth the Red Ensign will be carried second in order of precedence in Legion Colour Parties. The number of flags in the abbreviated Colour Party will increase from 6 to 7. They are, in order of precedence: 1) the Canadian Flag [Maple Leaf], 2) The Red Ensign [1922-1957], 3) the Union Jack, 4) the Provincial Flag, 5) the UN Banner 6) the NATO flag and 7) the Legion Banner [e.g. Branch Banner].

Provisional parade formations have been determined by the Ritual and Awards Committee. The Ritual and Awards Manual will be revised and a final determination for formations will be published in the new edition. For the interim, the provisional formations to be used are as follows:

Abbreviated form, 7 flags:

When formed in a single rank of 7, from right to left; 1) the Canadian Flag [Maple Leaf], 2) The Red Ensign [1922-1957], 3) the Union Jack, 4) the Provincial Flag, 5) the UN Banner, 6) the NATO flag and 7) the Legion Banner [e.g. Branch Banner].

When formed in three ranks: Front rank, 1) The bearer of the Canadian Flag at the right end, 2) the Red Ensign in the centre and 3) the Union Jack on the left end. Second rank, 4) the Provincial Flag immediately behind the Canadian Flag, 5) the UN Banner immediately behind the Red Ensign, 6) the NATO flag immediately behind the Union Jack. Third rank, 7) the Legion Banner forms up on the far right flank in the same line with the Canadian flag, however, on the march may be required to move to the left flank depending on the location of the sluting dias.

Full Colour Party, 19 flags:

The Colour Party will form up in ranks of 3 abreast. The first two are the same as the abbreviated version above. Note that the Flag of the Province or Territory in which the parade takes place occupies the 4th position. The following 4 ranks are the remaining 12 provincial and territorial flags in order of joining confederation. The second from the last row will form the blank file. Order of precedence follows in each rank from right to left.

The Supply Department is pleased to announce the immediate availability of the Red Ensign for purchase. They are a regular Supply item and can be included in your regular orders.

Red Ensign - Rope & Toggle

400160 $59.95

Red Ensign - Sleeved

400161 $69.95

Red Ensign - Sleeved and fringed

400162 $79.95

Picture of the correct Canadian Red Ensign