The Uniforms of the Household Cavalry

[@Kaiserbill99]

I lost my father last year. He was in the Household Cavalry in the 1950s. He would have enjoyed this clip no end.

[@BrandonF]

I am sorry for your loss- but thank you for the kind words. I hope you have found it useful and enjoyable as well!

[@pricelessppp]

Sorry to hear.

[@theofficial_usa]

I feel bad for you

[@anonymous7022]

My great grandfather fought as household cavalry in WW1. His worst battle was the somme.

[@dimitarstojanov4939]

I'm really sorry for your loss I hope God belses him

[@therealunclevanya]

Remember these are real soldiers as well, they rotate into armoured cars and served in Afghanistan and Iraq

[@thomas1brad]

They mainly use CVR(T) Scimitars than using armoured cars, Jackal and Cayote do get used as well but that' more a Dragoon used vehicle, they used tracked more than wheeled vehicles.

[@juicynarwal6272]

Kinda cool that they get to serve in the household cavalry then also serve in the modern equivalent of it at the same time.

[@angrycanuck7408]

Uhuru Mkali they also have the job of protecting the queen as the household cavalry I think that is a very important job on its own

[@leontrotsky9268]

The Patriotic Canadian Historian well gotta say the monarchy sorta gay

[@pfcsantiago8852]

@@leontrotsky9268 well you would know .

[@lauriemapplebeck1286]

The boots are amazing! They are polished to want looks like patent leather. The shine is Beautiful! Of course, I can only see them on KZbin, but what I watch is astonishing! Thank you!🇨🇦❤️🇬🇧🙏🏼

[@biscuitsbrown3330]

spent ten years of my life in the blues and royals best years of my life

[@hughfranklin4002]

I believe when the drum horse's are on parade, they hold the rank of Major, they are the only animals in the British armed force's that hold an officers rank.

[@BrandonF]

Though there certainly are plenty of animals of rank in the army. If you've not read about it before, look up the Royal Welsh's Regimental Goat. There are some delightful stories surrounding that tradition!

[@rideoutsean]

salutes horse

[@jamestolley6910]

We actually have to salute the drum horse whenever he is in state kit. It's a very weird feeling at first and the other regiments we share quarters with get quite the surprise

[@urkie2]

Hugh Franklin one of them keeps step with the drum?

[@keithorbell8946]

@@BrandonF there seems to be a bit of a tradition the Goat to be busted for bad behaviour. The late 1980’s documentary series “In the Highest Tradition” did a very amusing section on regimental mascots in the British Army.

[@ANGELandGHOSTS]

The black horses were introduced into the household cavalry by Charles the Second, as he found that black horses frightened the enemy more during a charge than any other colour of horse.

[@ronhall9394]

Nazgul?

[@strappernick9891]

The only branch of service I would've ever considered because I love horses almost more than life. Good job lads!

[@bobnewnham7400]

Hi Brandon F. I was the Life Guards kettledrummer back in the 1980's, riding a fantastic blue roan Clydesdale called Coriolanus (nicknamed Bumble). At that time the Gold Coats were valued at about £8,000 and the Silver Drums (which were tuned to Eb & Bb) were uninsured as, due to their antiquity, were considered priceless.

[@andreashuth4069]

Smile on my face, history cannot be bought! We served at about the same time, I started off in a wonderful infantry battalion. Ended up in tanks.

[@rogerwhite5061]

Thank you for the info, especially what the kettle drums are tuned to . I'd imagine that it does take considerable practice to drum while parading , do you follow the rythem that you are moving at or are you playing to a different rythem , which I'd think is more difficult especially keeping the horses all in step while beating out a rythem that may be faster or slower. Thank you again

[@bobnewnham7400]

@@rogerwhite5061 The tempo of the music is completely independent to the walking pace. Sometimes we are required to 'rein in' or 'step out', depending on the structure of the parade. Marches are usually played at 'walk', 'trot' or 'canter', but any style of music is achievable.

[@hellfirepictures]

Hey Bob. I'm a bit late to the convo here... Is it just Clyde's that are used or do they use Shires too? Do you still ride? And if the coats were £8k in the 80s, one has to wonder how much they're worth these days! I tried my hand at embroidery during lockdown, saw a fab small gold project I wanted to do, and realised to make something only a few inches across would cost over £100 in thread - so I can only imagine the cost (and weight) of that kit these days!

[@bobnewnham7400]

@@hellfirepictures Drum Horses used to be either piebald or skewbald. HM The Queen (greatly missed) introduced Coriolanus to us in the early 80's, starting a new tradition. I'm guessing Gold Coats would be £40k + nowadays. Yes, they're heavy and warm, but their advantage is that they have internal pockets and there's less kit to clean!

[@TheGmeister812]

Brandon, what a great video! (Former Life Guard)

[@TarnishUK]

The peaked caps worn are not called forage caps. Forage caps were a rough equivalent to the US garrison cap and were replaced in British Army service during WW2 by the General Service cap which was in turn replaced by the beret.

[@BettySwollocks13]

I remember staying with my aunt and uncle (RQMC) at Knightsbridge Barracks when I was around 10 (76'ish). My uncle who was in the Life Guards showed us around the barracks and I remember wearing one of the musicians coats, the weight of it was unbelievable. Really enjoyed my week there as a kid.

[@keithpringle3940]

What's an RQMC? I know what an RQMS is.

[@BettySwollocks13]

@@keithpringle3940 I assume Regimental Quartermaster Corporal.

[@keithpringle3940]

@@BettySwollocks13 Aye right enough!! I remember now there's no such thing as a sgt in the household cavalry, because queen victoria (I think) thought the word sounded too much like servant!! Cheers for reminding me!! Pointless info for some I know, but it was bugging me!!

[@steveluke4779]

NCO ranks in the Household Cavelry are different from other English regiments. As far as I recall I remember a Queens Corporel, a Corporel of Horse and a Regimental Corporel Major. In the 1950s I was a boy entry in the army and we had NCOs from a mixture of regimentd

[@annejones8777]

@@keithpringle3940 nothing is pointless if it teaches something

[@25019719]

What an amazingly well researched video this is. Well done to whoever made it. Unlike most things these days this is incredibly accurate. Well done Sir.

[@poppedweasel]

"Some of these horses are complete tyrants." That really made me chuckle. Don't mess with the British warhorse. This was a really enjoyable and informative video.

[@cogidubnus1953]

I'm not sure, but think he might actually have said "tyros"...

[@hellfirepictures]

@@cogidubnus1953 No. He said Tyrants. As in, vicious personalities.

[@adaoraelliott9254]

@@cogidubnus1953 there are subtitles in the clip

[@cycleSCUBA]

Massive respect to these guys and horses: the ceremonial is perfection and they are brave and efficient soldiers on active duty. Ex- Royal Engineer.

[@patriciabailey1937]

My son is also ex-engineer.

[@immortallvulture]

fun fact about the drum horses. as the musicians need both hands to play they steer the horses by attaching reins to their feet. for reasons Ive since forgotten the drum horses are also listed officially as commissioned officers, both holding the rank of major. on the subject of those drums the ceremonial ones are made from silver looted supposedly from waterloo and are amazingly too expensive to insure

[@BrandonF]

Amazingly expensive indeed, regardless of where the silver came from I am sure!

[@immortallvulture]

absolutely. I was a guest of the mounted regiment a couple of years ago, Their barracks was full of various bits of silver and other interesting things each with a good story behind it. though I think as with most army regiments the historical and sentimental value is worth far more in the regiments eyes

[@redengineer4380]

This reminds me of another thing I saw where a bear was drafted into the army and started recieving paychecks. Of course they only held the rank of private. But they did as a matter of fact help load artillery into guns.

[@laughingsnake1989]

red engineer the Polish soldier bear

[@MichalSoukup1995]

@@laughingsnake1989 He made it to corporal, or sergeant later on...

[@ianprince1698]

I worked as a gardener in Hyde Park near their barracks in the 1970s and would sometimes see a riderless horse followed by the rider running through the park.

[@sandielindemeyer9341]

The uniforms are all so majestically beautiful!

[@jobe5514]

Ah, my great-grandfather was in the 'Blues' during WW1, thank you for this video - excellent stuff!

[@sandacathan9787]

Thank you for a superb narration of the history of His Majesty’s Horse Guards.

[@noelt8895]

I'm amazed you didn't mention that the kettle drums are made of solid silver and presented by King William IV

[@gordonsmith8899]

Noel T I was told that only one of the drums was presented by King William IV - the other was given by his father King George III.

[@rogerwhite5061]

Thank you Brandon for creating such an interesting channel . I've just discovered yours and have subscribed . I appreciate that someone has taken an interest in this history and uniformology and created a great quantity of excellent episodes , Having served in the USMC I've allways had an interest in the English military as our branch of the service was modeled directly on the English Marine Corps . I look forward to watching all the wonderful episodes you've produced , Thank You and keep up the great work .

[@TheRagingK]

Achilles, Hector, Alexander the Great and Jimmy. Those names are amazing especially the last one.

[@notgod3532]

Brandon, as a Midwestern American rancher I pride myself in good horsemanship and the discipline that must be undertook to become a good horseman. This appears to be an amazing example of each and I would as we say, “owe you one” if you could perhaps guide me in the right direction to find more information on how a simple American cowboy could perhaps witness a ceremony of the House Calvary. It seems like it would be an amazing experience. Your response is most appreciated.

[@BrandonF]

Well the best way to see them is always to go to London for a parade, but more locally, I would look I to the "Musical Ride" of the Household Cavalry. They are large shows put on by the cavalry across the world, sort of like a military tattoo. There may be, in the coming years, a performance you can drive somewhere for.

[@hellfirepictures]

If you've still not seen them and want to, get a ticket for the Trooping the Colour - usually three different events - held in May each year. They are regularly on duty at Horseguards Parade but there you'd only really see them stood still in their boxes not doing much. You'd also see them doing early morning rides around Hyde Park before the crowds arrive on a normal day.

[@MrEvansj1]

The drummers actually control their horses with their feet, steering it with the reins attached to the stirrups.

[@BrandonF]

Which makes their skill all the more impressive!

[@MrEvansj1]

Brandon2495 Truly is. Also, thanks for replying! :)

[@PippbrookProductions]

Just a tiny addition to the complexity of uniforms - the Life Guards Trumpeters have red plumes, not the white of the Troopers. My father was a Life Guards Trumpeter between 1934 and 1947.

[@peterbrown1012]

Answer from The Household Cavalry museum about ranks at the time of Waterloo The prefix of sergeant in the rank title of WO'S and NCO'S is not used in the Household Cavalry. Originally the rank sergeant was used in the infantry and the rank of Corporal for the Cavalry. When the junior rank of Corporal was introduced into the infantry the Corporal of the Cavalry became designated Corporal of Horse, which indicated a more exalted rank than that of Corporal in the infantry. Up to 1788 the men of the troops of Life Guards were styled 'Private Gentlemen ' and they purchased their own place in the Horse Guards and provided their own horse. Originally the senior 'Private Gentlemen ' in each troop were known as Right Hand Men, within each troop the senior right hand man was styled as Troop Quartermaster and the junior Right Hand Man in each troop was known as Corporal. Their rank badges consisted of different types of aiguillettes and this continued until 1804 when chevrons were adopted for NCO'S in the army. The Regiments of the Household Cavalry only wore chevrons on their field tunics and aiguillettes were retained for wear with full dress. NCO'S and men of the horse (i.e. 1st and 2nd Life Guards and Royal Horse Guards ) always received higher pay than the equivalent ranks in the army and this practice continued until 1914. In December 1830 the rank of Troop Quartermaster was discontinued and substituted by a new rank of Troop Corporal Major. At the same time the establishment of each regiment of the Household Cavalry was increased to include a Commissioned Officer as Quartermaster up to 1892 the regiments always worked in troops and only when in the field were 2 troops combined to make a squadron. Later in 1892 regiments became organised at all times into squadrons and the senior of the Troop Corporal Majors became Squadron Corporal Major. The junior Troop Corporal Majors were designated as Squadron quartermaster Corporal. The rank of Regimental Corporal Major was introduced into the Household Cavalry in 1805; in December 1856 a new appointment was created of Regimental Quartermaster Corporal Major and ranked as Warrent Officer class 2 The current ranks are : Trooper Lance Corporal 2 chevrons + crown above Lance-corporal of Horse 3 cheveron + cloth crown above Corporal of Horse 3 chevrons + crown above Squadron Quartermaster Corporal 4 inverted chevrons + crown above Squadron Corporal Major (SCM crown (WO2)) Regimental Quartermaster Corporal, crown with laurel wreath surround (WO2) Regimental Corporal Major (RCM WO1) royal coat of arms (lion + unicorn ) The Life Guards wear brass crowns and The Blues and Royals wear silver crowns with black backing.

[@stracepipe]

I remember that documentary. The instructor told the recruits "If you lose your horse, stand still and make a noise like a carrot." Many of these lads will have never ridden a horse before.

[@collinthegamer510]

💀

[@maatkarah]

I'm very surprised to read that; because anyone I've known who joined the horse guards was "horse-y" in the extreme and had grown up riding horses. I just presumed you had to be a very competent rider to even be considered.

[@christinephipps8236]

The ceremonial tunics are made by Firimin a company in london the family run firm was founded by a man called Kasket who was taylor to the last tsar of Russia. they also make the uniforms for the royal family.There is also firm in Birmingham which is part of the firmin group which makes all the buttons badges ect and also the helmets which are hand made using rollers and are shaped by eye. there are only two men in the world that can do this work it takes about 5 hours to shape each one, also the part of the helmet which protects the neck is shaped on a blacksmiths helm and is the origonal one from when the firm was founded in 1655 which makes it the oldest manufacting company in the world.Birmingham is known has the city of a throusand trades and the whistles used on the Titanic were made in its well known Jewellery quarter.

[@blsterling9367]

Fabulous information! Thank you!

[@AMVRebirth]

This is so cool man.. I wish kids nowadays got into stuff like this. Very historical & intriguing

[@ORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR13]

I think we should stop this pomp and ceremony in the UK

[@AlexCren1]

I will mention a fact that also makes the training of the drum horses so specialized is that they are not guided by a hand on the reins. Obviously their riders need their hands to drum. So they are trained to be guided by reins attached to their rider’s feet! Which changes a lot of the ways they can be signaled. I was fascinated when I saw that!

[@QUARTERMASTEREMI6]

@Brandon F. A video on the mounted cavalry, in the very same (high) quality I can expect - Brandon thank you! As an Equestrian (who rides English saddle), I appreciate when the right amount of focus & detail goes to giving the mounted cavalry the respect it equally deserves. Do keep it up! :)

[@martintabony611]

Good video. Just a couple of ad ons. The "pantaloons" are called busckskin breaches. cartouche box, The Life Guards wear red backing to the Royal coat of arms, this is called a "light". In cloak order The Life Guards fasten the cloak collar with hooks and eyes, with the top button pushed through. RHG/D leave the collar open. Bye the way HCR carry a sword not a "sabre". :)

[@BrandonF]

Great stuff! Thank you for the additions.

[@Timrath]

A breach is a point of breakthrough. Surely, you must mean "breeches", which is the proper British spelling. In American spelling, "britches" woud also be correct.

[@roryshearer2306]

@Brandon2495 the shoulder cord as you called it is actually an aiguillette, just if you further reference. They are worth a google as they can signify certain positions.

[@BrandonF]

Yes, I didn't know the proper name at the time I am afraid. Bit of an oversight on my part. I will add an annotation to correct that!

[@RogersRamblings]

If you look at an NCO's aiguillettes they have differing numbers of "strands" indicating their rank. Household Cavalry ranks are material for another video.

[@noelt8895]

Aiguillettes were originally two pens in ink cartridges, hung on the chest, for an Assistant/ADC/Adjutant to write down the orders of his boss. Knib and ink, not ballpoint! LOL

[@richardofoz2167]

Very interesting and well done. Can you please do something similar on the Royal Horse Artillery?

[@benjamingrist6539]

I like the changes you made to the intro. It makes it more distinctively yours.

[@BrandonF]

Most things on this channel are still firmly in the "work in progress" category I think, but we're getting there. Thanks!

[@Thurman321]

Jimmy, truly the name befitting a hero. Thank you for that, it made me chuckle.

[@BrandonF]

I do my best.

[@md6173]

I am from America and just came upon your video a d I try enjoyed it. I am in such awe of England's history and traditions that this video was a real treat. It was well done and very informative. Thank you so much. I hope to view similar ones on your channel.

[@micheledibenedetto7780]

m d good for you mate , message me if you want me to fetch any souvenirs from London I’ll happily pass them on free of charge to welcome you as a freind of the old country

[@mcoguyaj]

Nice to include the Clydesdales that are the only horse that isn't in any other regiment. The training that goes into the horse musicians. If you notice they hold the reins with their elbows. The amount of training the horses get so they don't get spooked.

[@mickemike2148]

Now I know more regarding these uniforms than I ever need to know. Thank you!

[@panicon2]

Thank you for this wonderful presentation!

[@desantos1234]

those museums must be heaven for you ;)

[@BrandonF]

I've spent what some may call a shameful amount of time in each of the Household museums.

[@geofffikar3417]

@@BrandonF nothing shameful about it.

[@sarahb2623]

Thank you for this video! I learned much and especially enjoyed the museum displays and historical facts. ❤ Signed, Anglophile in Texas

[@richardcleveland8549]

Fascinating - really well done! Congratulations! My introduction to your channel.

[@cornelia9778]

How interesting. Thank you. I have a Cousin who served in the Grenadier Guards and I drive him nuts with questions every time there’s a big event. Now I don’t have to ask about the Horse Guards.

[@doraldeddy1836]

Very enjoyable post👍 Very informative. Thank you and regards.

[@richardwoods5873]

No such thing as "enlisted men" in the British Army; there are "officers" and "other ranks". "Other ranks" may be differentiated between "Warrant Officers" (WOs), "Non-commissioned officers" (NCOs), and "men". The term NCOs may, depending on context, be used to include WOs.

[@HappySerafim]

Please do an episode on the irish guards, 4th mos senior regiment of foot guards. I'll be joining them in a few months. Quis Separbit

[@corecriticalful]

Came to this video from the KZbin Rewind 2018 one you made. Really interesting stuff here, great video!

[@BrandonF]

Thank you! I suppose the Rewind video served its purpose!

[@mdy5252]

Love their uniform!

[@henrymartini298]

Fantastic video! I'm currently working on a series of videos about each regiment of the British army, starting with the Life Guards of course. A couple of points of note I'd like to mention, NCO ranks wear aiguillettes as well as officers, with NCOs wearing on the left and officers on the right. Also, of note is that the trumpeters of the Life Guards wear scarlet plumes on their helmets.

[@hellfirepictures]

Thank you! I'd literally just typed a comment asking why some of the Life Guards had Scarlet plumes when I saw them ride past last week - a comment which I shall now delete :D Merci beaucoup.

[@richardofoz2167]

Good video of a deserving subject. Now, how about one for the Royal Horse Artillery?

[@samuelfawdry6411]

Do a video about the Coldstream Guards please.

[@BrandonF]

I will be doing videos on the Uniforms of the Foot Guards and the History of the Coldstream Guards in the future. It may take some time as I finish up some school work this semester, but they will be here!

[@JohnDoe-pi3po]

“In the presence of the royal family, the cross belts and slings become gold.” As in they simply become gold. The soldier does not change them, the mere sight of a royal causes the uniform to change on its own

[@kinglouiev9530]

The last cavalry charge in history was when 700 Italian horsemen charged at a numerically superior force of ~2,500 Soviets in the hamlet of Izbushensky in the year 1942. It was surprisingly successful.

[@andybrace9225]

Charge was also done by British Yeomanry regiment in Syria against Vichy French forces in WW2

[@RonRicho]

An amazing explanation of a somewhat complex subject. Good work. I salute you.

[@BrandonF]

Thank you! I am planning to make a similar video on the Foot Guards, in the next few months.

[@jonathanhodgson2142]

I am looking forward to it.

[@anvilbrunner.2013]

Splendid, presentation. My Lad will appreciate this video too.

[@BrandonF]

Glad to hear it! Thank you!

[@colinp2238]

I think, for the sake of any colonials watching, that you should mention at the start of the video that the soldiers in the Household Cavalry are fully professional soldiers that are used in combat conditions and not just for ceremonial duties. This should be stated on the Guard's Regiment videos that you have made and also the Kings Troop RHA.

[@comettamer]

I'd imagine they probably pick that up well enough (I know I did)

[@andy2550]

Well, I'm a "colonial", and I was already fully aware of that.

[@katerinakemp5701]

I'm a colonial already aware of this, think the explanations are needed for your cousins across the pond lol.

[@katerinakemp5701]

Do you really think us colonial s are that thick, have some faith in us. We have stood by the UK through thick and thin, to the detriment of us so called colonials, what a twat you are.

[@mushypeasplease8872]

@@katerinakemp5701 - spot on.

[@AlexandraWolf-ql6bi]

I have always loved the Drum horses and they are very popular with the crowds.

[@willmo42]

Wow nice video. I am always amazed at the amount of details that go into these sorts of things.

[@BrandonF]

+willmo42 No expense is spared when it comes to pomp and circumstance- in rather stark contrast to the rest of the military!

[@willmo42]

Brandon2495 I am curious as to weather you will cover some of the peculiar traditions that are kept in the house hold regiments in some videos or will the be in the respective history based videos?

[@BrandonF]

They will likely be split between history and modern practice videos, depending on what the quirk is. If you have any specific thing you'd like me to discuss, even if it belongs in a distant video, let me know!

[@Sshooter444]

Great content, thanks!

[@BrandonF]

Thank you!

[@BrandonF]

Well now, I couldn't possibly comment on something like that, but I do know that growth has been consistent and fast enough to leave me impressed! Thank you all the same.

[@cattycorner8]

Great work! Exactly what I was looking for. I was wondering if they still train to fight with their sabres.

[@abbamanic]

Another excellent presentation, thank you.

[@BrandonF]

Thank you!

[@cragus07]

Great informative video, did you ever do the follow up videos about the histories of each regiment in the household cavalry?

[@alan1340]

I have always wondered why the mounted "LifeGuards" do not have any BLUE plumage. I realised blue is used on some Busbys but that is not my question. Hoping you can enlighten me.

[@bobnewnham7400]

The Life Guards have a white plum denoting cowardice. This is also shown on their overall trousers with a split line. Life Guard trumpeters wear a red (bloodied) plume as they stayed on the field of battle.

[@heli-crewhgs5285]

With so many British Army regiments being disbanded, or amalgamated, I never quite understood why these two regiments were never merged. Although, I'm glad that they weren't.

[@tomasdawe4423]

The Lifeguards and the Blues & Royals were several years ago they are now 1st & 2nd Battalion Horse Guards respectively (although they still keep their distinct uniforms and names)

[@paganphil100]

Heli-Crew HGS: The Blues & Royals were formed in 1968 when the Royal Horse Guards (Blues) amalgamated with the Royal Dragoons (Royals).

[@terrystephens1102]

A very interesting and informative video, thanks.😃👍👏👏👏👏

[@rebeccaboyed9340]

The Lifeguards are the senior regiment and are always at the front of parades except when the Royal horse artillery are on parade with their cannons. Also all of the Lifeguards are called 'Troopers' not private as in the rest of the British army.

[@bradleyjewell7458]

rebecca boyed they aren't always at the front of parades, in Trooping the Colour and any Royal parade it depends on whether the Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons (Blues and Royals) or The Lifeguards are the Sovereign's escort

[@thomas1brad]

Side note, The Rifles Regiment replace the rank 'private' for 'rifleman'.

[@rebeccaboyed9340]

My father was in the Lifeguards in the 1950's he told me these facts he passed away 17/7/17 84 yrs old.

[@paganphil100]

rebecca boyed: ALL armoured Corps soldiers (lowest ranks) are called "Troopers" (so are the SAS).

[@lauriemapplebeck1286]

Thank you Ireland!! Beautiful horses! I can see why you are so, 🇨🇦❤️🇬🇧proud!!

[@alexbonham2361]

Household Cavalry from new model army civil war period and was kept by Charles the second so lots of history to them. And horses with kettle drums hold the rank of Major due their importance.

[@elliottcooper6824]

Hi, im the profiled close up blue and royal trooper. Photo circa 2002 😆 happy to answer any questions

[@harpothekidrs3282]

I can tell you from experience (six years of wearing the standard shako of the American high school marching band as well as Drum and Bugel Corps) that having the under the chin isn't the most pleasant as compared to under the lip. At least in my opinion.

[@jonathanhodgson2142]

Excellent and enjoyable video, very informative. Thank you. Did have a giggle at your pronunciation of the word khaki though. In English we say khaaaky (aaaahh as in opening your mouth for the dentist). Kaky sounds like "kak" which is a term we use for something being a bit crap. lol. Keep your pecker up and I am very much looking forward to the foot guards video. Smashing stuff.

[@BrandonF]

Thank you! And, just be thankful I don't pronounce it as some of my family in Boston would!

[@jonathanhodgson2142]

eeeek ...... although you have me rather intrigued now.

[@Riceball01]

I once heard someone from the Boston area say khaki and it took me the longest time to understand what he was saying since it sounded like he was saying car keys and the conversation had nothing to do with cars or keys.

[@rideoutsean]

Brandon F. BOSTON STRONG

[@bugler75]

I believe khaki comes from the Hindi word for dust or dirt and the story goes that British troops in India used dirt to dirty their white linen working dress for an improvised camouflage. This I believe was in the 1870s time. Please feel free to correct me with any further information ! Great video again!

[@leneeanderson4848]

This was a great stuff! But I can't find the History of the Life Guards video you talk about. Could someone post the link?

[@roybrookes9433]

Great Video . I am ex Blues and Royals . You missed one snippet of information . The Blues and Royals Officers Plum is Made from Yaks Hair .

[@juliusschwencke142]

...wondered why it was so hairy..

[@bradmiller2329]

Ah! That explains why it "fluffs" differently to the Life Guards.

[@nomisbman1826]

14:06 well know roman warrior, jimmy justinian johnus, he fought alongside ceasar in the battle of alesia.

[@peterbrown3069]

The Household cavalry armoured regiment are leaving Combermere barracks in Windsor to go to Salisbury plain, They have been at the present barracks since 1881 and in previous barracks since 1796. They are holding there last open day in September and it will be the final time they will march from their barracks to St. George's chapel for the remembrance day parade. It will be a sad day when they leave.

[@noelt8895]

As it was when King's Troop RHA were similarly booted out of St John's Wood to Napier Barracks, Woolwich. Very convenient for trooping the Colour, Royal Funerals etc

[@PaulGarthAviation]

Really great information. Timing is good as I'm doing ancestry research and uncovered a GGF who was in 1st Life Guards from 1895 to 20's. Went to Belgium with BEF in October 1914. Question about a photo I found -- on left sleeve, at top of glove is an inverted V and above that looks like two guns in a cross-formation. On right sleeve near cuff is a V which looks like a double chevron. Do you have info on the insignia? The photo was dated 1903.

[@BrandonF]

At first I thought it may have had something to do with the 1st Life Guards being organized into the Guards Machine Gun Regiment for the time it existed, but that was well after 1903. I can't think of anything otherwise off the top of my head, but will be sure to look into it in more detail as I do my research for the second half of the "History of the Life Guards" videos. Would you happen to be able to forward me the image in a private message? It sounds interesting.

[@stevetheduck1425]

The two rifles crossed is usually a personal qualification as a marksman. The inverted V can be a cuff decoration, , even a rank (single usually means lance-corporal or chosen man).

[@PaulGarthAviation]

@@stevetheduck1425 Thanks for response about marksman, which I'm sure you're correct. In 1921 he was still rank of Trooper. I now believe the left sleeve top of glove insignia is LSGC (Long Service Good Conduct). Historically relevant (marksmanship), because I found my GGF in in the 1901 Census (Hyde Park Barracks). By cross-referencing, I found many soldiers there that had also served in the Boer war. My understanding is that they came back after that war with a new approach to cavalry, which included marksmanship with the Lee Enfield. In further research, during the Battle of Ypres, I'm figuring he was in D Squadron, and one of the lucky and few survivors - an "Old Contemptible". Fascinating that uniforms capture the true meaning of what was actually happening at the time.

[@PaulGarthAviation]

@@BrandonF Sorry for 3 year delay. I PM'd you the photo.

[@jryce]

Thank you! I needed this information and your video is great!

[@FilmerOfBobcats]

Is there any place to go find out about the tack the horses wear? I would like to make a replica in miniature that is accurate in all the details.

[@alanbower1193]

Hi Brandon. Iv's learned a lot of interesting things from watching your videos. Thanks. Keep up the good work.

[@ORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR13]

What does Iv's mean ???

[@alanbower1193]

@@ORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR13 It means I didn't take the time to proofread my comment.

[@peterbrown3069]

I was in The Life Guards for 6 years (armoured) will you be discussing their unique ranking system and customs?

[@BrandonF]

I will be discussing the ranks, customs, etc. in a future video. I am currently working on my "History of the Life Guards" video, and it may make it in to that, or a separate one if it ends up being too long.

[@peterbrown3069]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Household_Cavalry

[@squidgy6930]

I joined at 16 and did riding school at 17 . HMCR riding school is tough as fuck especially for someone like me who was naturally scruffy

[@ALmuhiybALrukn-EhabSonAllah]

dear I need your help and tell me from where I can buy this large Life Guards - Officers Gold Cord Aiguillette - Right Shoulder - Household Cavalry

[@tomc303]

excellent stuff, done very well

[@BrandonF]

Thank you!

[@Noway15z]

I was planning on getting an early night, but your videos changed that! Keep up the good work, mate. :)

[@BrandonF]

Sorry to have ruined your plans! And thank you.

[@DavidJones-dy2ul]

Brandon, there's no way you could explain the Lifeguards uniforms in 16+ minutes, but you've come as close as anyone could! Bravo, On an outstanding job! 📯Loved the background music too!🎼 As Bandmaster, I instructed at the Chicago Military Academy for 11 years. Naturally I took my cue from the British - especially the Guards! Thanks for covering the winter "overcoats" I own one copy of each, Lifeguards and Blues and Royals. Thank you much! Sincerely, David 😷 in Chicago 🇺🇸

[@shaquan2523]

4:21 what is that uniform called?

[@NikolajMoeller1]

Video at 15:10? Please link! It's where the guy blows that horn

[@BrandonF]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJvafpiDh75gobc It is a Long Guard at Horse Guards Parade.

[@ronhall9394]

Did you know that for a long time (not sure when it finished - 1930's?) that the academic levels for getting into Sandhurst were lower for the Cav officers than any other Corp? Can't have jolly good fellows not getting their pips because they were a bit dim. Good Old Whinny Churchill couldn't get into the Infantry so he had a swing at the Hay Burners - Thank God for Alan Brooke.

[@mjrulez100]

What about the artillery uniforms and horses?

[@briancoleman971]

Have a friend who was in the Royal Blues and has the most amazing collection of uniforms and accoutrements from the Household cavalry you have ever seen

[@briancoleman971]

Blues and Royals I mean😅

[@LOGISTICS1987]

Brandon why don't you do one on the first horse of thebritish indian army the skinner's horses

[@patmoore5107]

Kettle drum is a timpano. Multiple timpano are timpani. Those are herald bugles. Trumpets without keys, or rather valves, are bugles. Herald trumpets and bugles are what carry the standard or flag of a group. Timpanists steer the horse with their feet and knees. Thanks for the great video!

[@patmoore5107]

Timpani is Italian word for that instrument and is used universally the accepted name. Kettle drum is a colloquial term for those instrument as they look like the large copper pots, or kettles, from the kitchen. Originally all timpani were fixed pitch being tuned by the tuning lugs at the top. This was improved on over time first with a crank and later with a pedal. At least, that’s what my percussion instructor told me in college. Bugle, whatever it’s shape or wrapping, is a valveless trumpet. The notes it plays are based on the overtones series and are not limited except for the skill of the player. I can play 8 notes on my bugle. Not bad for a tuba player.

[@KnobJuan]

They are called kettle drums and Eb cavalry or state trumpets.

[@laudwigh]

sweden's cerimonial cavalry are very similary in both uniforms and horses (Beridna högvakten)

[@patrickasplund]

Why do you say the jack boots are less comfortable than wellington riding boots?

[@otisplatt1296]

How were the Household Cavalry deployed during the First World War? Were they mounted in the early days and then deployed unmounted on the Western Front, or was their utility better served on the Middle Eastern theatre?

[@jackmanaley3665]

They, along with all other cavalry regiments, behaved mounted in the early years of the war and acted as Mounted Infantry aswell as their traditional Cavalry role. As the war progressed and the stalemate of the western front continued, they dismounted and fought in the trenches. A few regiments were even converted to the newly created 'Guards Machine Gun Regiment'.

[@crowbar4929]

can you do a video on Royal Marines? Or do you just know about the British Army?

[@BrandonF]

My current plan is to do similar videos for the Household Division first, though I may extend to groups like the Royal Marines later on.

[@jonathongreenwell9586]

another great vid would be the uniforms of musicians through out the army, how they carry more ornate traditional aspects compered to the regiments they support

[@BrandonF]

I will be talking about the uniforms of the Guards bands when I make the "Uniforms of the Foot Guards" video...though that may be a good while away! As far as other regiments go, I might continue on to them after the Household Division series is finished.

[@jonathongreenwell9586]

I look forward to seeing it, really loved this video. As a former military musician from NZ, this is right up my ally ha ha

[@BrandonF]

+Jonathon Greenwell I'm glad to hear it!

[@chrisb4400]

Just to settle a point about trumpets and bugles. The instruments that the Household Cavalry use are trumpets. They have two coils of tubing, are tuned to E flat or D and can play a total of 8 different notes. Bugles are usually used by the infantry. They are much shorter and are tuned to B flat. They can only play 5 different notes. Royal Marine drummers carry bugles and use then when playing such as "Sunset" when the flags are lowered. The two instruments have very different sounds. Just to complicate things, there are B flat trumpets which are the same length as the cavalry trumpet but only have one coil of tubing. Like the bugle they can only play 5 notes. The presence or otherwise of valves is irrelevant. Hope this helps

[@peterscrafton9106]

The King's Troop RHA carry both, also. As was said, correctly, bugles were used in the field, and trumpets, otherwise. For an illustration, watch the 1968 version of "Charge of the Light Brigade"

[@davidweihe6052]

With no valves, the number of notes that they can play is limited purely by the players' lips. Bugles are tuned to whatever key the manufacturer chooses; of course, finding non-B Flat trumpets or bugles is somewhat hard, anymore, as they are not used except in historical displays or the Beatles' Penny Lane.

[@spndx66]

Besides which, you can also have a one valve and a two valve bugle, as in an American drum and bugle corps. Cornets and flugel horns are yet other members of the valved brass family in the range.

[@bushyconn]

After listening to your commentary and watching the video, I am intrigued as to the cost of outfitting a trooper, NCO.Officer etc. Must be thousands.

[@bushyconn]

@Tabourba I guess so, but it must be a hell of a lot!!

[@immortallvulture]

I remember hearing that the full cost of the ceremonial uniforms and riding kit is something in the area of £5000 per trooper but it doesn’t quite work out like that as the uniforms are passed down from one trooper to the next. Apparently some of the uniforms are older than the soldiers wearing them.