The story of the No. 2 Construction Battalion is an important aspect of Canadian history and shows the passion, bravery and dedication of Black Canadians during the First World War.
Honour Before Glory is a powerful one-hour docudrama that pays tribute to the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) – also known as the Black Battalion.
Eager to serve, Canadians rushed to recruiting stations after the outbreak of the First World War. However, hundreds of Black volunteers found themselves turned away due to racist recruiting practices. In response, Black Canadians petitioned the government and, on July 5, 1916, the No. 2 Construction Battalion was formed in Pictou, Nova Scotia – the only All-Black Canadian battalion to serve in the First World War.
"The making of Honour Before Glory was a true labour of love for me”, said director Anthony Sherwood. “I was inspired by the war diary of my great-uncle, Captain Reverend William White, who was the Chaplin for the No. 2 Construction Battalion. William White was the first Black officer and the only Black Chaplin in the entire British Armed Forces during the First World War.”
White’s diary, the only first-hand account of the experiences of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, with its uniquely eloquent and poetic style, is the heart of the film. “Reading my great-uncle's diary evoked a deep emotion in my soul,” Sherwood continued. “It is his words that serve as an emotional narration for the film.”
Don’t miss your opportunity to view this award-winning film, which will be available here for streaming during Veterans’ Week from Nov. 5 to Nov. 11!