The Cold War 1945-1991
The Cold War started with the defeat of Germany in 1945. It ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. In 1949, Canada was a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
In 1950, NATO established an "integrated defence force" in Europe. From 1951 to 1992, Canadian Gunners rotated service in West Germany. Units based in Canada prepared for rapid deployment on NATO missions. Many of these forces would focus on the defence of Norway.
During the 1960s, the Royal Canadian Artillery deployed the 762 mm Rocket. The Honest John Rocket used nuclear warheads and conventional non-nuclear warheads. Canada had systems capable of firing nuclear weapons into the 1980s.
Over 1,200 Canadians died while serving during the Cold War, including 14 Gunners. The Royal Regiment continues to serve as part of Canada's NATO force.
