The Battle of Leliefontein occurred as part of the Second Boer War, a conflict that arose from tension between British forces and Boer settlers in South Africa. This particular encounter involved the Royal Canadian Dragoons, who were part of a column operating under the command of Lord Robert Kitchener. As hostilities intensified, Canadian troops were engaged in skirmishes with Boer forces who were skilled in guerrilla tactics. The engagements forced the British to adapt and develop new military strategies. During the fighting, the Royal Canadian Dragoons demonstrated outstanding courage and effective coordination in battle scenarios that included ambushes and charges against fortified Boer positions.

The crucial moments of this battle saw three members of the Dragoons awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor for valor in the British Commonwealth. The bravery of Corporal William McKenzie, Lieutenant John S. McInnis, and Sergeant George W. Forsyth stood out as they fearlessly navigated perilous close quarters while under continuous fire to save fellow soldiers and achieve tactical objectives. Their actions not only exemplified the valor of the Canadian troops but also boosted the morale of the British forces during a challenging phase of the war.