Pacific Coast Militia Rangers

Corporate body

Pacific Coast Militia Rangers

The Pacific Coast Militia Rangers were originally known as the Coastal Defense Guards. They were formed in early 1942 to ease the public’s fears over potential enemy activities, and because existing coastal defenses were perceived as inadequate. The Rangers often sought loggers, trappers, prospectors, and ranchers to fill their numbers, as these men had the necessary knowledge of the local terrain and topography. However other occupations, such as bankers and accountants, also numbered among the ranks. The men were unpaid, but trained in observation, anti-sabotage measures, protection of lines of communication and transportation, and were involved with intelligence duties and local defense. Participation in the Rangers allowed those who were too old or too young to serve in the regular Forces to feel as if they were making a contribution to the war efforts.

Many of the newly-formed companies of Rangers were geographically spread out and unable to attend local training camps. Those who did attend instructed those who could not. On September 1, 1942, the first edition of “The Ranger” was issued, with useful information such as “Know where to shoot,” “Edible plants of BC,” “Dig or Die,” and “What can you do with a tarp?”

The early months of the PCMR were marked by a lack of appropriate clothing and weaponry. However, a standard issue kit was developed to include steel helmets, cloth “dry bak”shooting hat, armbands, cloth, “dry bak” cruiser coat with shoulder straps, cloth “dry bak” trousers and battle dress drill blouse with .303 rifles.

The PCMR never engaged the enemy.

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