RSM Thomas McKenzie is familiar to all those who serve, past and present, with The Royal Canadian Regiment as the "first recruit." His name is indeed entered as the first non commissioned officer to join "A" Company of the Infantry School Corps, established following General Order 26 (21 December 1883). In fact, McKenzie gave up his officer rank in the Canadian Militia to join the first unit in the regular army. He was appointed Regimental Sergeant Major, a position he maintained until his retirement in 1895. In 1898, McKenzie published "My Life as a Soldier", an autobiographical account of his exploits in the British, and the Canadian Army.
In this image, the first page of "A" Company enlistment ledger, from 1883 to 1901, with McKenzie's service number "2001", age 53 and date of enlistment, 7 January 1884. The ledger is part of The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, Archives Collection.