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Camaraderie, Connection, Commissionaires

Understanding the ties that bind

The Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) has a long and proud history of service to Canada – on the battlefield, in peacekeeping missions and in communities across the country, serving continuously since its founding in Ottawa in August 1914. But the story of the PPCLI’s service does not end when the uniform comes off. In fact, for many members of the storied regiment, this is when another kind of service begins – one that lives on through organizations like Commissionaires.

Inspired by the British Corps of Commissionaires model established in the UK in 1859, the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires was established on July 25, 1925 to support the reintegration of First World War veterans by offering structured, dignified civilian work rooted in discipline and public service. The Canadian Corps  began expanding in 1927 with the launch of individual “companies” in major cities across the country. These early branches laid the foundation for what would become a national federation of divisions, all united by a shared purpose – to honour the sacrifices of veterans by helping them find renewed purpose in civilian life.

When Commissionaires Northern Alberta Division (CNAD) was activated on September 5, 1939, only days before Canada entered the Second World War, its mandate was clear: provide meaningful employment for veterans returning home from war and protect the communities they served. In those early days of the Division, commissionaires were hand-picked ex-servicemen, praised by the Edmonton Bulletin as being “disciplined and reliable” individuals offering night patrol, home security and public services like ushering and postal work. Their work wasn’t glamorous, but it was vital – and it gave many veterans a renewed sense of purpose and belonging after war.

At the helm of this newly formed division stood Colonel Louis Scott, DCM – a decorated First World War veteran, an original member of the PPCLI and the very first Commandant (CEO) of what was then called the Edmonton Division. His appointment was more than symbolic. It set the tone for a leadership model rooted in military values: discipline, duty, loyalty and service to others.

Col. Scott had served in the PPCLI with distinction, earning the Distinguished Conduct Medal for bravery in the field, but his legacy extends far beyond the battlefield. Under his leadership, Commissionaires became a trusted presence in Alberta – offering structure, purpose and community for veterans transitioning to civilian life. He was present at the Division’s first recorded Board of Governors meeting in 1947, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the longest-standing and most respected veteran-focused organizations in the province.

This PPCLI connection did not end with Col. Scott. Many members of CNAD over the decades, including those in senior leadership, instructional and operational roles, have come from the PPCLI. Another PPCLI veteran, former CEO, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John Slater, whose tenure spanned from 2007 to 2023, carried forward that same spirit of veteran-focused leadership, dedicated to supporting and maintaining cohesion through the Division.

Today, current CEO, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Nick Grimshaw, also a PPCLI veteran, continues the tradition but also brings with him a renewed sense of purpose and insight into what it means to lead with integrity and support people with an intention that balances tradition with innovation across the security and veteran employment sectors.

Across the Division, more PPCLI veterans (Patricians) continue to serve in meaningful capacities –bringing their training, teamwork and leadership to CNAD’s ongoing operations.

From its earliest days, the Division has stayed true to its roots: veterans helping veterans, fostering camaraderie and building a bridge between military and civilian life. It is a story of reintegration and renewal – of individuals who, after answering the call of duty, came home to lead, serve and protect once again in a new way.

As we honour those who served Canada, we also remember those who wove their service into the fabric of civilian life – leaders like Col. Scott and the many veterans who followed in his footsteps, helping to build and sustain a place where veterans continue to support one another. Let us remember not only the sacrifice made in battle, but the strength shown in rebuilding. The ties that bind CNAD and the PPCLI are more than historical – they are personal, powerful and enduring.

  • Col. Louis Scott the Division's first commandant (CEO).
  • Former Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry members (L to R) Wayne Taylor, Graham Ragsdale, Tony Meier, Derek Bisson, Darby Whitebone and current CEO Nick Grimshaw.
  • Former Division CEO and PPCLI veteran, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John Slater.