Irish Guards

Irish Guards. The Irish Guards is a regiment of Foot Guards in the British Army, one of the seven regiments of the Household Division. Raised in 1900 by order of Queen Victoria, the regiment has served with distinction in every major conflict involving the British Army since the Second Boer War. Known for their distinctive mascot, an Irish Wolfhound, and their cap badge featuring the Shamrock, they maintain a proud heritage closely linked with Ireland.

History

The regiment was founded on 1 April 1900 by Queen Victoria in recognition of the bravery of Irish soldiers during the Second Boer War. It first saw action at the Battle of the Somme in 1916 during the First World War, suffering heavy casualties. In the Second World War, the regiment fought in the Norwegian Campaign, at Boulogne during the Battle of France, and later distinguished itself during the Italian Campaign, notably at the Battle of Monte Cassino. Post-war, it was deployed during Operation Banner in Northern Ireland and has seen recent service in the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021) and the Iraq War.

Organisation

The regiment forms part of the Guards Division and currently maintains a single operational battalion, the 1st Battalion, which serves as a Light Mechanised Infantry unit. It is part of the 11th Infantry Brigade and Headquarters South East and is based at Aldershot Garrison. The regimental headquarters is located at Wellington Barracks in London. The regiment's personnel are trained at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick Garrison.

Regimental traditions

The regiment's cap badge features a Shamrock, and its motto is "Quis Separabit". Its mascot is always an Irish Wolfhound, a tradition begun in 1902; the current mascot is named Turlough Mór. The regiment's quick march is "St. Patrick's Day", and its slow march is "Let Erin Remember". Members wear a blue hackle in their Bearskins. The Colonel of the Regiment is a senior appointment, historically held by figures such as Field Marshal The Duke of Connaught and Strathearn.

Battle honours

The regiment holds numerous battle honours, reflecting its long service. From the First World War, these include Loos, Somme 1916, Ypres, and Cambrai. Second World War honours include Boulogne 1940, Normandy Landing, Caen, Nijmegen, and the Gothic Line. Post-1945 honours recognised service in the Gulf War and Afghanistan. The honour "The Queen's Company" was granted for service at Buckingham Palace.

Notable members

Many distinguished individuals have served, including the war poet and composer Captain F.E. Smith. The actor James Hewitt served as a Captain in the regiment. Renowned military figures include Major General Sir John Gorman. The regiment has been associated with royalty, with King George V serving as its first Colonel-in-Chief, a role later held by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and now by The Princess of Wales.

Category:Guards regiments of the British Army Category:Military units and formations established in 1900