Charles-René-Léonidas d'Irumberry de Salaberry

Charles-René-Léonidas d'Irumberry de Salaberry, born on August twenty-seventh, eighteen twenty, was a distinguished French-Canadian militia officer and civil servant. He is best remembered as the founding commanding officer of Les Voltigeurs de Québec, a regiment that played a significant role in Canadian military history.

His lineage included notable military heritage, as his father, Charles-Michel d'Irumberry de Salaberry, was celebrated for his heroism during the Battle of Chateauguay in the War of eighteen twelve. Following in his father's footsteps, Charles-René served in the 2nd Regiment of Rouville Militia, where he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel in eighteen fifty-two.

Amid rising tensions during the Trent Affair in March eighteen sixty-two, he took the initiative to raise the 9th Battalion Volunteer Rifles, known as the Quebec Voltigeurs, in Quebec City. This regiment was actively engaged during the Fenian Raids in March eighteen sixty-six, showcasing his commitment to the defense of Canada.

In addition to his military contributions, d'Irumberry de Salaberry played a crucial role in negotiating on behalf of the Government of Canada during the Red River Rebellion of eighteen sixty-nine to eighteen seventy, further solidifying his legacy as a key figure in Canadian history.