WW2 Canadian Officers’ Training Corps University of Montreal Collars Insignia Pair

This pair of WW2 Canadian Officers’ Training Corps (COTC) collar insignia originates from the University of Montreal. Such insignia were worn by officer cadets enrolled in the military training program during the Second World War. Each badge in the pair is constructed from brass, featuring the University of Montreal’s heraldic elements alongside the “COTC” initials to denote the wearer’s affiliation with the Canadian Officers’ Training Corps. These collars were typically pinned to the uniform, distinguishing members of the university’s contingent from those of other institutions. The COTC played a significant role in preparing university students for potential commission or service in the Canadian armed forces. Items like these insignia represent the academic and military cooperation in Canada during the war period, and are a notable aspect of Canadian military regalia from this era. This pair remains an example of wartime Canadian militaria connected to higher education institutions.