On the 31st March 2002, at the age of 101 years, HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother passed away, and with her passed a long affiliation with and love for the Irish Guards. Her Majesty first attended St. Patrick's day in 1927 but it wasn't until 1964 that she started to present the Royal Shamrock to the Battalion. HM The Queen Mother very often presented it in person despite the frequent conflict over dates with the Cheltenham races.

'For 32 years I have had the great pleasure of presenting shamrock to the Irish Guards on St. Patrick`s Day. This gift has enabled me to forge a link with the Regiment which I greatly cherish, and wherever they are serving, at home or abroad, my heart and best wishes will be with them.'

'Taken from the book 'The First Hundred Years 1900 - 2000'

At 1130hrs on 9th April after laying in state, the funeral of The Queen Mother took place. The Bearer Party was found by Guardsmen of the Irish Guards at The Queen Mother's personal request.