We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant-Colonel Robert S. Chamberlain MC, C St J, CD on 3 August 2002 at the St. Thomas - Elgin General Hospital in his 82nd year. LCol Chamberlain was the Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the Elgin Regiment for 15 years. This unit has been re-roled as 31 Combat Engineer Regiment (The Elgins).
Bob joined the Perth Regiment and served with distinction overseas during the Second World War. At age 22, he was the youngest major in the Canadian Army. He was decorated with the Military Cross on 7 January 1944 for in Italy"
"During the day and evening this officer and the handful of men under his command doggedly repelled determined attempts to dislodge them, inflicting casualties on the enemy. Shortly after midnight on 18 January 1944, having been unable to make contact the entire day, Lieutenant Chamberlain safely disengaged his section and led them back to rejoin the unit.
Throughout this action, Lieutenant Chamberlain led his men with the greatest courage and determination. He personally accounted for several of the enemy and under his inspiring leadership his men reached and held their objective under heavy odds."
After the war, Bob returned to private life in St. Thomas, Ontario. He also served the St. John Ambulance for over 20 years, attaining the rank of Commander of the Order of Saint John.
Remembrances may be made to the Elgin Military Museum or the St. Thomas - Elgin General Hospital Foundation (emergency department renovation chaired by Dr. Stanley Hagerman).