Home > CMH > Vol. 34 (2025) > Iss. 2
Abstract
Lieutenant-Colonel Donald Mackenzie was the commanding officer of the 48th Highlanders of Canada from June 1944 until his death in April 1945. He had been a lieutenant in the militia when the war broke out. His chain of command quickly made him a company commander, then sent him away from the unit to gain valuable staff training and experience. Although lacking combat leadership experience, he rejoined the 48th Highlanders in Italy, became the battalion’s second-in-command, and, after only five months, took over as the commanding officer at the age of twenty-nine. Mackenzie’s experience provides valuable insight into the challenges faced by infantry battalion commanders. Additionally, by considering Mackenzie’s progression in comparison with the career paths of other potential commanding officers within the unit, we can see the challenges faced by one battalion as it attempted to promote from within and develop its officers.
Recommended Citation
Wentzell, Tyler "Lieutenant-Colonel Donald Mackenzie and the 48th Highlanders of Canada: A Study in Battalion Command and Officer Progression." Canadian Military History 34, 2 (2025)
