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Military mascot refers to a pet animal maintained by a military unit for ceremonial purposes or as an emblem of that unit. It may also be referred to as a ceremonial pet or regimental mascot. British Army Mascots "Official" British Army mascots are entitled to the services of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, as well as quartering and food at public expense. There are also mascots whose costs are borne by the regiment or unit itself. The Royal Welsh|The 1st Battalion, the Royal Welsh (formerly Royal Welch Fusiliers) The Royal Welsh|The 3rd Battalion, the Royal Welsh (formerly Royal Welsh Regiment) Prince of Waless Own Regiment of Yorkshire|1st Battalion the Prince of Waless Own Regiment of Yorkshire Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Queens Royal Hussars Irish Guards|The Irish Guards The first mascot was called Brian Boru, after Ireland's great national hero. There have been 12 more since, all named after Irish High Kings or heroes. Originally, the mascot was in the care of a drummer boy, but is now looked after by one of the regiment's drummers and his family. The Irish Guards are the only Guards regiment permitted to have their mascot lead them on parade. During Trooping the Colour, however, the mascot marches only from Chelsea Barracks as far as Horse Guards Parade. He then falls out. He does not participate in the trooping itself. The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders|The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louises) The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment|The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment (29th/45th Foot) Inherited from a predecessor Regiment The 95th Derbyshire Regiment The first Private Derby was acquired in 1858 by the 95th (Derbyshire) Regiment of Foot at the Siege and capture of Kotah during the Indian Mutiny Campaign of 1857 - 1858. The Commanding Officer whilst on one of his forays within the town, noticed a fine fighting ram tethered in a temple yard. He directed Private Sullivan of the Number 1 Company to take the ram into his possession. When on parade "Private Derby" wears a coat of scarlet with Lincoln green and gold facings, the whole emblazoned with the Regiment's main Battle Honours. Also on his coat is to be found a replica of his India Mutiny Medal and in addition he now wears the General Service Medal 1962 with Clasp Northern Ireland for he has been stationed there several times over the years. On his forehead is to be found a silver plate suitably embossed with the Regimental Cap Badge while on the tips of his horns fit a pair of silver protectors. "Private Derby" has two handlers whose duty it is to look after him at all times. The senior handler carries the Battalion rank of "Ram Major" whilst the other has that of "Ram Orderly". The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers|1st Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Inherited fom a predecessor Regiment The Royal Warwickshire Fusiliers. | |||||||
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