By Brian London OAM., DCM. Both Tours

The Colours are the focal point of all that made the regiment great. They are consecrated symbols embodying the loyalty, spirit and traditions of the Regiment to which they belong.

The origin of the symbols can be traced back to the dim beginnings of history. Over 5000 years ago in India there was the "Cult of the Standard". In the time of Julius Caesar standards were made of metal, but with the advent of the Christian era they were made of cloth, silk or damask.

Early Military flags were of two types: the personal flag borne in the feudal armies when service was rendered to the immediate overlord, and the national or standardized flag as borne by the National or standing armies. George 111 abolished the personal aspect in 1743 when a warrant stated "No Colonel shall put his arms, crest device or livery in any part of the appointments of his Regiment". The same warrant directed the number of the Regiment to be painted in the centre of the Regimental or second colour inaugurating the Regimental aspect. Varying colours were carried by Regiments until 1751 when it was decreed that only two colours would be carried in future - The King's (or Queen's) and the Regimental Colour.

The purpose of the standard was to serve as a rallying point in the field of battle. When the distinctive insignia was held aloft the troops knew the position of their leader. To lose the standard often meant that one's leader was lost. Therefore the importance of "Keeping the flag flying" was very great.

With the introduction of modern weapons the casualty rate among Colour and Standard Bearers was very high. So high was the mortality rating of colour bearers during the Crimean War that in subsequent European wars British Colours were not carried. The Colours were last carried into battle at Laings Nec on 26 January 1881, in the first Boer War.

The Queen's Colour is a reminder to all ranks of their loyalty and duty to their sovereign and their Country. The Regimental Colour is a symbol of Regimental tradition and of the duty owed by each member to the Regiment. Battle Honours are emblazoned on the Colours.

In earlier days the colours were trooped through the ranks prior to an engagement so that they could be recognised by all ranks as a rallying point during the battle. To-day the Trooping of the Colours through the ranks of the Regiment is continued as a Ceremonial Movement only.

Before being presented, the Colours are always consecrated at a religious ceremony on parade where God's blessing on them is asked. This dates back to the Battle of the Standard in 1138 when the Yeoman of Yorkshire took with them consecrated banners from York Cathedral, and fought so fiercely to save the banners that they defeated heavy odds.

Presentation of the Colours

The Fifth Battalion was presented with the Queen's and Regimental Colours on Sunday 29th October 1967. His Excellency, The Governor of New South Wales, Sir Roden Cutler, VC., KCMG., CBE. presents the Colours to 2nd-Lt, D. G. Lovell.

Due to the end of Australia's military commitment in the Vietnam War, there became a requirement to reduce Australia's standing army. On the 3 December 1973 the 5th Battalion was linked with the 7th Battalion and became 5/7RAR (Mechanised).

Regimental Colours of 5RAR

On the 3rd of December 2006 saw 5RAR de-linked from 7RAR and became once again a battalion within its own right within the Royal Australian Regiment. The De-Linking Ceremony was conducted at 1 Brigade Parade Ground, Robertson Barracks Darwin.

Re-Dedication of 5RAR's Colours

On the 14 February 2007, on a hilltop overlooking Port Augusta, the Tiger Battalion re-dedicated itself to its Colours in a ceremony at Cultana Field Training Area. CO 5RAR, Lt-Col Jake Ellwood, said the Colours, which were originally consecrated and blessed on October 29, 1967, symbolise the regiment's important links with its history, traditions and its soldiers. The ceremony marked a small milestone in Australian military history, with the Tiger Battalion being the first unit to re-dedicate itself to its original Colours.

Historical Notes

Regimental Motto - 'Duty First' Regimental March - 'Dominique' Alliance - 'Her Majesty's Welsh Guards'

 

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