Charles Francis Constantine

Major-General Charles Francis Constantine (1883–1954) was a Canadian military leader and commandant of the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) from 1925 to 1930. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he grew up in a family with strong law enforcement ties—his father was a superintendent in the Royal North-West Mounted Police, and his mother was Henrietta Anne Constantine. Educated at Upper Canada College and RMC, where he excelled as an athlete and attained the rank of Commandant (XI), Constantine pursued a distinguished military career. Joining the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (RCHA) in 1905, he rose through the ranks, serving during World War I as a captain, then later as brigade major and lieutenant colonel. He played a key role in the Battle of Vimy Ridge, earning decorations like the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and bar, along with France's Legion of Honour and appointment as a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). Post-war, he held significant military positions, including adjutant-general and commanding officer of Kingston, Ontario. As RMC Commandant, Constantine focused on rebuilding and expanding the college. He oversaw infrastructure improvements and advocated for academic reforms, though some proposals faced resistance. Despite these challenges, he ensured RMC remained a vital institution for military training. A noted sportsman, he played rugby and hockey and was instrumental in establishing the Constantine Arena at RMC in 1960. Constantine's wife, Marie, was active with the Girl Guides of Canada, and they had three daughters. He died in Kingston on July 30, 1954, a day before ...