R.C.—The Thistle within the circle and motto of the Order of the Thistle. In each of the four corners, the Royal Cypher, ensigned with the imperial crown.
The motto of this Order is “Nemo me impune lacessit.”
The honorary distinctions are: Blenheim; Ramillies; Oudenarde; Malplaquet; Dettingen; Martinique, 1794; Bladensburg; Alma; Inkerman; Sevastopol; South Africa, 1879; Burma, 1885-87; Tirah; South Africa, 1899-1902; Relief of Ladysmith.
The colours of this regiment were captured by the French at Blenheim during an overwhelming charge, but were fortunately regained later. At New Orleans they underwent an experience probably unparalleled in the history of all regimental flags. A quartermaster-sergeant, fearing that they might be lost, tore them from their staff and wrapped them round his body. Unfortunately, he was taken prisoner, but, strange as it may seem, he was able to hide them from his guards during the year or two that he was kept confined. The faithful man was able to restore them to his regiment when he regained England.
The Cheshire Regiment.—Facings, buff for all battalions but the 4th, which are scarlet.
R.C.—The united Red and White Rose.
The battle honours are: Louisburg; Martinique, 1762; Havannah; Meeanee; Hyderabad; Scinde; South Africa, 1900-02.
During the battle of Dettingen which, curiously enough, does not figure among the honorary distinctions, King George II. was being harassed by the French when a body of the “Two Twos” surrounded him, as he stood under an oak tree, and protected his person. The King, to show his gratitude, took a leaf from the tree, and offered it to the senior officer. Ever since, the oak leaf has been an honoured badge of the Cheshires, who wear it on their colours annually on September 12th.
The Royal Welsh Fusiliers.—Facings, blue.
R.C.—The plume of the Prince of Wales. In the first and fourth corners, the Rising Sun; in the second corner, the Red Dragon; in the third corner, the White Horse, with the motto, “Nec aspera terrent.”