The two uniforms in the display case illustrate two remarkable aspects of the 48th Highlanders of Canada’s ceremonial tradition: mess dress and pipers’ full dress.
On the left in the photo is the regiment’s mess dress, a formal evening uniform worn by officers and senior NCOs at regimental dinners, ceremonial banquets, and social functions. The scarlet jacket with dark facings is a hallmark of British and Commonwealth Highland regiments, adapted by the 48th Highlanders after their formation in 1891. The waistcoat and kilt are in Davidson tartan, the regimental tartan worn by all ranks except pipers. This particular example is distinguished by gold shoulder cords, identifying it as the mess dress of either a senior Warrant Officer, such as a Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), or an officer. The miniature medals belonged to Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Frederick Wigmore, MM, CD who became Regimental Sargeant Major (RSM) after WW 2.
It is important to note that RSM is not a rank but an appointment—the senior-most warrant officer of the battalion. The RSM is responsible for regimental discipline, drill standards, and advising the commanding officer on soldier welfare and traditions. It is the pinnacle of a non-commissioned soldier’s career and carries immense respect within the regiment.
On the right in the photo is the pipers’ full dress uniform, one of the most distinctive in the Canadian Army. The green doublet with elaborate silver braid and shoulder wings is traditional for pipers. Notably, the kilt here is Stewart of Fingask tartan, unique to the 48th Highlanders’ pipers. This singular choice of tartan makes them immediately recognizable on parade.