Uniform, Canada’s Nursing Sisters

Nicknamed “bluebirds” because of their blue uniforms and white veils, Canada’s nursing sisters saved lives during the First World War by caring for wounded and sick soldiers as well as convalescents, prisoners of war, and even civilians on occasion.

Uniform, Canada’s Nursing Sisters - IMG_0849 - CopyCanada’s nursing sisters played a vital role in the care of wounded soldiers during both World Wars. Called “nursing sisters” because some of the early nurses belonged to religious orders, they were given the rank of Lieutenant during the First World War.

The nurses were an integral part of the Canadian Army Medical Corps. The majority worked overseas in military hospitals and in casualty clearing stations. Often placed near the front-line, they ministered to injuries for which no one could have trained them. They were seen as angels of compassion by the soldiers whose lives they saved.

More than 2,800 nurses served in the Canadian Army Medical Corps (CAMC) as fully enlisted officers in the specially-created all female rank of Nursing Sister. This included the relative rank and equal pay to men-– the first women among the Allied forces to do so.

All were volunteers and there was never a shortage of candidates. In January 1915, for instance, there were 2,000 applicants for 75 positions.

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