33 Combat Engineer Regiment and Regimental Association at Beechwood

On the morning of June 20, members of the 33 Combat Engineer Regiment (33 CER) and the 33 CER Regimental Association gathered at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood to honour Officer Cadet (OCdt) Bill Whitley, who tragically lost his life during a training exercise at CFB Chilliwack on June 20, 1988.

A wreath bearing the inscription “From All Ranks – 33 Combat Engineer Regiment” was laid at OCdt Whitley’s final resting place in Section 27. The ceremony included a moment of silence, the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille, and time for private reflection — a fitting tribute led by those who continue to serve.

33 Combat Engineer Regiment, based in Ottawa, is a Primary Reserve unit of the Canadian Military Engineers.As part of the Canadian Army’s 33 Canadian Brigade Group, the regiment provides combat engineering support including mobility, counter-mobility, survivability, and general engineering tasks. The unit plays a key role in both domestic operations and international deployments, embodying the technical expertise and dedication essential to the Canadian Armed Forces.

We thank Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Ng, and all members of the Regiment and Regimental Association for their commitment to honouring their fallen comrade. Planning is already underway for the 2026 ceremony, and Beechwood is proud to continue supporting this important act of remembrance, including post-ceremony reception facilities.