Corporal Full Dress – Musketry Order 1897
This uniform was the epitome of ceremonial dress, reserved for the most formal and high-profile occasions. It was the regiment’s “dress to impress” uniform, designed to showcase its distinctive style and military heritage. A corporal would have worn this for grand public displays like parades, formal ceremonies, and regimental anniversaries. The term “Full Dress” signifies that it was the most elaborate uniform order, adorned with bright colours and intricate details that distinguished it from everyday wear.
The addition of “Musketry Order” indicates that it was also worn during shooting competitions or displays of marksmanship. This suggests that even while demonstrating a core military skill, the regiment maintained a polished and formal appearance. This uniform was not built for practical combat or strenuous field duties; its sole purpose was to present a professional, decorated, and disciplined image to the public, dignitaries, and other military units. It was a uniform of pageantry, designed to command respect and admiration through its appearance.
Lt. Col. W. C. W. Darling – Blue Serge Patrol Tunic
This uniform was the opposite of the ceremonial dress—it was a practical, everyday uniform for an officer. This Blue Serge Patrol Tunic was the standard attire for an officer like Lt. Col. Darling during his regular command duties. It was worn for a wide range of official but non-ceremonial activities, including inspections, staff work, office meetings, and day-to-day administrative tasks.
Unlike the Full Dress uniform, which was meant for public display, the Patrol Tunic was a uniform of business. It was smart, professional, and functional, reflecting the serious work of a commanding officer. The uniform featured key details that indicated Darling’s rank and role, such as the pip and crown insignia and the Auxiliary Force Officer’s decoration ribbon. Worn from 1896 to 1924, this uniform was central to his work as a commanding officer, particularly during World War I. It was a uniform for getting things done—handling correspondence, training troops, and managing the official affairs of the regiment in a manner that was both respectable and understated.