This photo is interesting for the fact that there are differences in uniform and headdress. In 1902 a new pattern dress tunic was introduced. It had pointed cuffs to replace the round cuffs of the 1881 pattern tunic. Examination of the men in the front rank reveals that some men wear the new tunic and some the old. There was a difference in the shoulder strap; the new tunic had a white edge to the scarlet strap.
Most of the men are wearing the home service blue helmet with a spike on top. The NCOs and some others are wearing the Brodrick cap that was introduced in 1902 and worn until around 1907. The white cloth patch behind the badge was added in late 1903. The NCO standing out in front is a colour sergeant, having crossed flags and a crown over his gold chevrons. The men wear medals for service in the Boer War. The white belts are part of their Slade Wallace equipment. The waist-belt supports two ammunition pouches, and a bayonet on the rear left hip. The shoulder straps cross over at the back and can, in marching order, support a valise high on the back and a rolled great-coat at waist level.
An officer standing to one side of the men wears the last pattern frock-coat that was restored c1902. It was blue and double-breasted with 12 buttons on the front. A crimson silk sash was worn around the waist and his sword was suspended from a hidden waist-belt. The forage cap was blue with a red welt around the top. Another officer behind him is in dress uniform with a blue helmet.
Regimental Details | Uniforms
