American Rangers in the War of 1812 and The Corps of Canadian Volunteers

Militia ranging companies were organized during the late 17th century in New England to counter the threats of Native American tribes during the various early colonial wars. Members of the ranging companies were called ‘rangers,’ and the term now applies to all specialized light infantry units which operate behind enemy lines. Many countries call their rangers ‘commandos.’ The U.S. Army raised ranger companies during most of our country’s wars, but these companies were disbanded at the end of these conflicts. The rangers became a permanent part of the U.S. Army after World War II. Today, the rangers are a part of our military’s Special Forces, which also include the Green Berets, Delta Force, and a number of other organizations from all branches of our military. Seventeen ranger companies were authorized by the U.S. Army during the War of 1812, and most of the western states and territories organized their own companies. The Corps of Canadian Volunteers were created to act as rangers along the Niagara River in New York state. Over 3,600 officers and men have been identified as serving in these ranger companies during this war. Mr. Johnson is a lineal descendant of seven veterans of the War of 1812. He is a Fellow of the Ohio Genealogical Society and a Registrar-General Emeritus for the General Society of the War of 1812. Johnson is currently the District Deputy President General for the Great Lakes Region for the General Society of the War of 1812. Eric Eugene Johnson 2026, 8.5" x 11", paper, index, 134 pp. ISBN: 9780788456374 101-J5637