The Background
is unique to the Foot Guards that the Sovereign approves
individual badges for Companies. They are normally made into
flags mounted on crimson backgrounds measuring 1ft 8 in x
1ft 6 in.
The Colours
Within the Battalion of the Irish Guards they are called
the Company Colours. However, within other Regiments of the
Division they are called Flags (SG), Camp Colours (GG) or
Silks (CG), in addition to this the Welsh Guards have taken
the same line as the Irish Guards and called them Company
Colours.
The History
Shortly after the Regiment was formed (1900) it was granted
eight Company Badges by King Edward VII. Then came the reforming
of the Second Battalion in 1939 when application was made
for a further eight badges. However, they were not approved
until 1945 (by King George VI) shortly before the Battalion
went into suspended animation. Later due to the alteration
in organisation it became necessary to seek a further six
badges. These were granted by the Queen in 1954 bringing
the total to the present figure of 22
The Colours on Parade
On a parade the Colours are held on a pike by a Non-Commissioned
Officer and used as marker points. Only the colours of those
on parade are used. The Colours of the Senior Officers on
parade should always be placed either side of the saluting
dais. |
