Commanding Officer
Lieutenant-Colonel Adam West, CD
TBC
Regimental Sergeant Major
Chief Warrant Officer Mason Baines, CD
Raised in Sutton, Ontario, Chief Warrant Officer Mason Baines is a dedicated family man and proud father of two, whose personal and professional life has been defined by a steadfast commitment to service, leadership, and community.
CWO Baines began his career in public service by joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1998. Over the years, he has served with distinction on multiple operational tours abroad, gaining extensive experience in high-pressure, complex environments. In 2003, he deployed to Bosnia as part of the multinational field hospital in Sipovo, contributing to international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. In 2009, he served in Afghanistan with the Royal Canadian Dragoons (RCD), demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and operational excellence in support of Canadian and allied forces.
In 2005, CWO Baines joined York Regional Police as a constable, bringing the same dedication and discipline from his military service into policing. He took a two-year leave of absence in 2008 to deploy to Afghanistan on ROTO 8, further enhancing his operational expertise and leadership skills. Promoted to Sergeant in 2020, he currently serves in the Organized Crime and Investigative Services Unit, where he applies his extensive experience to combat organized crime and ensure the safety and security of the communities he serves.
In June 2024, CWO Baines was appointed Regimental Sergeant Major of the Queen’s York Rangers, a prestigious role that recognizes his exceptional leadership, mentorship, and commitment to both military service and community engagement. Throughout his career, he has been known for his integrity, professionalism, and ability to inspire and guide teams through complex and challenging circumstances.
In April 2026 CWO Baines was appointed as the Regimental Sergeant Major of The Royal Regiment of Canada. He will serve as the RSM of both units. Combined they will form The York Garrison Tactical Group.
CWO Mason Baines’s career reflects a lifelong dedication to service whether on the frontlines abroad, protecting local communities at home, or mentoring the next generation of leaders within Canada’s armed forces and police service.