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Welcome to the Regimental History Section
Did you know that we have a dedicated section (including
images) for our Regimental History HERE
A VERY BRIEF HISTORY OF THE COLDSTREAM
GUARDS (for a more
detailed history click here)
The Coldstream Regiment of Foot
Guards is the oldest Corps by continuous existence in
the British Army, also the third representative by
lineal descent of the first Regular British Army, which,
as the new model Army, was raised and organized by
Oliver Cromwell.
The Regiment first mustered near Berwick in the year of
1650, and was composed of five Companies from Sir Arthur
Hazelrigg at Newcastle in 1647 and five companies of the
Regiment raised by Colonel Fenwick, in Berwick as a
garrison for that town. The new Regiment was officially
known as Monck’s Regiment of Foot, marched into Scotland
and fought with distinction at the Battle of Dunbar on
the 3rd September 1650. The earliest service which the
Regiment can claim against a foreign power was in 1652,
under Colonel Monck, who, as one of three Admirals led
the British Fleet with conspicuous success against the
then formidable Dutch Navy. The connection with the sea
was furthered in 1664 when five Hundred men were raised
by Royal Warrant for sea service. Thus the Coldstream
Guards can claim to be the Parent of the Royal Marines.
On January the 1st 1660, General Monck started from
Coldstream on his historic march to London, which he
reached on the 3rd February. The Coldstream were at once
ordered to take up their quarters for the first time in
the precincts of St. James’s Palace and were employed by
Monck in restoring order and repressing the riots and
disturbances which had characterized the last few months
of Parliamentary rule. The end of May, 1660, saw the
restoration of Charles the Second.
On the occasion of King Charles’s entry into London, the
Coldstream were for the first time inspected by the
Sovereign and His Majesty expressed him self as much
struck by the Beauty, discipline and martial appearance
of the Troops”.
On the kings Restoration, the disbandment of Cromwell’s
New Modal Army was decreed by Act of Parliament, with
the reservation that the Captain General’s ( Monck’s )
own Regiments of Horse and Foot were to be retained to
the last.
By January, 1661, the process of reduction was so far
completed the Monck’s Regiment of Horse was actually in
the course of disbandment, but for the chance of a riot
the continuous existence of the Coldstreamers would of
been abruptly terminated. On January the 6th, however, a
somewhat serious rising took place, necessitating stern
repressive measures on the part of the Regiment, and was
decided to Keep them permanently embodied for the
security of their Sovereign’s person.
The Regiment was, on the 14th Feb 1661, made the “Lord
General’s Regiment of Foot Guards having been paraded on
Tower Hill and ordered to “Ground Arms” as a Regiment in
the pay of Parliament and to “Take up Arms “ in the name
of the King. On the death of the Lord General the
Regiment became officially, as it had been popularly
known as “The Coldstream Guards”, to Commemorate its
march form Coldstream to London. The Regiment were
instrumental in putting Charles the second back on the
throne, thereby re-establishing the Monarchy and
restoring civil liberty to England.
From 1682 onwards until 1993, the Regiment has consisted
of two Battalions. In addition, the 3rd Battalion was
formed in 1897, and existed until placed into suspended
animation in 1959. The 4th Battalion was formed during
both world wars, as were the 5th and 6th Battalions in
world war II. The 2nd Battalion was placed in suspended
animation in 1993, although its Colours continue to be
borne by No. 7 Company which is the independent
incremental company, and which is stationed in London.
The Regiment has served with distinction in almost every
campaign fought by the British Army, the most recent of
those been the Gulf Conflict and Bosnia. Thirteen
members have been awarded the Victoria Cross, and one
the George Cross.
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THE
BATTLE HONOURS OF THE COLDSTREAM GUARDS (for a more detailed
record please click here)
January - December
1st January 1660
Monck's Regiment left Coldstream to march to London, arriving on 3rd
February. The Regiment was then used to quell riots in the City. In
May 1660 King Charles II was restored to the Throne, and Monck was
created Duke of Albemarle and Captain-General of the Forces.
21st January 1944
GARIGLIANO CROSSING, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
On 21st January 1944,the 3rd Bn crossed the River Garigliano, and
took over positions at Trimonsouli in preparation for advance
northwards. However, enemy counter-attacks made this impossible. The
Battalion remained in this position for a fortnight, overlooked by
the enemy on three sides, under constant shellfire, and in almost
incessant rain. During this time, the Battalion regained complete
control of No-Man's Land, and repelled all further counter attacks
despite heavy casualties.
21st January 1945
THE ROER, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
In an attack designed to straighten the Allied Line, the 4th (Tank)
Bn attacked on 21st January in support of infantry attacks directed
against the River Roer. For two days the tanks fought in snow and
mist, at times against heavy opposition.
25th January 1942
MSUS, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
This was a fine rear guard action fought by the 3rd Bn against a
numerically superior enemy, who for five successive days outflanked
the Coldstream positions. Each time the Battalion withdrew through
the enemy lines under cover of darkness, and across extremely
difficult desert country.
7th February 1705
GIBRALTAR 1704-5 WAR OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION
400 Coldstreamers formed part of the composite Guards Bn sent as
reinforcements to the garrison of Gibraltar, who were besieged by
the French and Spanish forces. The enemy attacked in great force on
7th February 1705, but were beaten off and after further failures
retired at the beginning of April.
8th February 1945
THE RHINELAND, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The 1st, 4th and 5th Bn's all played a prominent part in "Operation
Veritable" which was a series of attacks, lasting until 9th March,
designed to clear the Germans from the country between the River
Meuse and Rhine.
8th February 1945
THE REICHSWALD, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
On the 8th February 1945,the 6th Guards Tank Brigade attacked to
break through the Siegfried line. The 4th (Tank) Battalion was on
the right and found that their main enemy was the almost impassable
mud. The Battalion reached their main objectives, and the Grenadiers
passed through to breach the main defences.
11th February 1945
CLEVE, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
After the breaching of the Siegfried Line, 6th Guards Tank Brigade
and 15th Scottish Division went on to capture Cleve. The main
contribution of the 4th (Tank) Battalion was the keeping open of the
only remaining route to the battalion 24 Hours; the Armoured
Recovery Vehicles of the Battalion extricated more than 100 vehicles
from the mud.
14th February 1661
The Regiment was paraded at Tower Hill, and ordered to lay down its
arms as Monck's Coldstream Regiment of Foot Guards, and to take them
up as the Lord Generals Regiment of Foot Guards.
14th February 1945
MOYLAND, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
After the capture of Cleve, the 4th (Tank) Battalion was ordered to
advance towards Calcar. On the 14th February, No 3 Sqn set out to
capture the village of Moyland but were held up by stiff German
resistance. On the following day they were joined by No 1 Squadron
who were, however, then held up by a thick minefield and heavy
shellfire. Both Squadrons were relieved the next day and withdrew to
Cleve.
17th February 1944 (On Colours)
MONTE ORNITO, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The Second Battalion took up positions on Monte Ornito, the tip of
the Allied salient. The Germans were determined to regain this
position and for twelve days the battalion was subjected to
persistent attacks. Despite the bitter cold, the snow and the
appalling difficulty of obtaining supplies the Battalion fought off
every attack, and when the position was handed over on the 20th
February, the slopes were strewn with enemy dead. The Battalion
suffered 190 casualties, and some 50 men were sent to hospital
suffering from frostbite.
19th February 1943
SBIBA, NORTH AFRICA. WORLD WAR 2
On the 14th February 1943,when the Germans broke through the
Passerine Pass, 1st Guards Brigade were rushed up to stem their
advance. On 19th February the Germans attacked the 2nd Bn position
near Sbiba with Tanks and Infantry, but were repulsed. The attack
was renewed the next day, but with no further success .The failure
to break through here and in the next valley proved to be the
turning point of Rommel's attack within a few days the Allied line
was once more secure.
20th February 1945
GOCH, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
On 20th February the 4th (Tank) Battalion supported 227 Infantry
Brigade in an attack to the east of Goch. Progress was slow as the
infantry were frequently delayed by heavy shellfire but by nightfall
all objectives were reached and two squadrons then withdrew. The
remaining squadron helped to repel heavy counter attacks on the
following day, and then rejoined the Battalion that evening.
8th February 1943
STEAMROLLER FARM, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
During the final stages of their attacks in Tunisia, the Germans cut
the important Medjez-Arrousa road. On 28th February, No 3 company of
the 2nd Battalion, mounted on Churchill tanks , attacked along the
road towards Steamroller Farm, a dominating enemy strong point. On
approaching the position they came under heavy fire and were unable
to advance further. During the night, the Germans withdrew and the
road was then cleared again.
28th February 1945
THE HOCHWALD, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
In two days of heavy fighting, the 4th (Tank) Battalion supported
185 Infantry Brigade in its attacks on Kervenheim. The German
paratroops, supported by artillery, fought hard with bazookas and
grenades and it was not until 2nd March that the town was entered.
5th March 1811 (On Colours)
BARROSA PENINSULAR WAR
During the Battle of Barrosa, two companies of the Second Battalion
took part in a charge that drove French troops from a strong
position. For this they were specially commended by the commander,
General Graham in his despatch.
6th March 1943
MEDENINE, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
201 Guards Brigade, with the 3rd Battalion as the left forward
Battalion, were in a position defending a dominating hill, which lay
astride the axis of the German attack. In the morning, the enemy
attacked with tanks and in the afternoon with Infantry: both attacks
were repulsed with heavy loss to the enemy. This was Rommel's last
attack on the Eighth Army in North Africa.
8th March 1801
EGYPT (THE SPHINX)
The First Battalion took part in the landing at Aboukir Bay during
the war of the French Revolution. For its share in the campaign that
followed, in which Napoleon's hope of an Eastern Empire was
shattered, the Regiment was awarded the badge of the Sphinx,
superscribed "Egypt".
8th March 1885
SUAKIN
On this day the 1st Battalion landed at Suakin on the Red Sea to
join General Graham's force which was to overthrow the Mahdi at
Khartoum and avenge the death of General Gordo. Two months later ,
the expedition was abandoned for political reasons.
9th March 1945 (On Colours)
BONNINGHARDT RIDGE, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The 5th Battalion, supported by a squadron of the 1st (Armoured)
Battalion, attacked the German bridgehead over the Rhine at Wesel.
The German paratroops fought fanatically, but all objectives were
reached, and 120 prisoners were taken. Later that night, the Germans
withdrew to the far side, of the Rhine.
16th March 1943 (On Colours)
MARETH, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
The 3rd Battalion, together with the 6th Battalion Grenadier Guards,
was ordered to attack by night the "Horseshoe" ridge, an advanced
position of the Mareth Line. This was thought to be a lightly held
post, but was afterwards found to be defended, by the greater part
of the 90th Light division and a Panzer Grenadier Battalion.
Unexpected minefields, extensive wire, and very heavy bought the
night attack to a standstill, and it was with great difficulty and
many casualties that the remaining men of the forward companies were
withdrawn. Only nine men returned from Number One Company, which had
advanced through a minefield incurring heavy casualties, to capture
one of the enemy forward positions .It was the only success in an
otherwise disastrous attack.
26th March 1918 (On Colours)
ARRAS 1918 WORLD WAR 1
On 21st March 1918,the Germans made their last determined attack of
the war from the direction of St Quentin. The Guards Division held a
line to the flank of the main attack and resisted every onslaught.
All four Coldstream Battalions were involved but did not incur heavy
casualties. One of their stiffest encounters was at
Douchy-les-Ayette on 26th March.
28th March 1945
THE RHINE, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
After the 6th Guards Tank Brigade had crossed the Rhine, it had
prepared to pass into Germany to exploit the Wesel bridgehead. On
28th March, the 4th (Tank) Battalion took over the lead in the
advance on Munster, which is commemorated by the Regiment on 3rd
April.
3rd April 1945 (On Colours)
MUNSTER, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
On this day Munster fell to the 6th Guards Armoured Brigade Group
after a spectacular dash of over 50 miles in less than a week.
Supported by American paratroops, the 4th (Tank) Battalion led the
advance through Haltern and on to Munster, clearing the persistent
and sometimes heavy opposition by a series of dashing day and night
operations.
3rd April 1945
LINGEN, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
No 3 Company of the 5th Bn, supported by a squadron of the first
(Armoured) Bn, was ordered to capture intact a bridge over the River
Ems near Lingen. Captain Liddell, the Company Commander, first
crossed the bridge, alone, to neutralise the demolition charges, in
spite of the intense fire, and then led his leading platoon across
the bridge to charge the well entrenched enemy, who were later found
to consist of 150 Infantry supported by 3 88mm and 2 20mm guns
firing at point blank range. Captain Liddell was awarded the
Victoria Cross for his superb gallantry, but died of his wounds
received in a later battle.
12th April 1918 (On Colours)
HAZEBROUCK WORLD WAR 1
In this action the 3rd Battalion as part of the 4th Guards Brigade,
was attacked repeatedly attacked by strong forces. The right of the
Battalions position rested on L'Eppinette, a village some 5 miles
southeast of Hazebrouck. Very heavy casualties were suffered before
the Germans were finally repulsed. In his despatch, the
Commander-in-Chief, Sir Douglas Haig wrote: No more brilliant
exploit has taken place since the opening of the enemies offensive,
though gallant actions have been without number.
14th April 1814
PENINSULAR WAR
In the last action of the Peninsular War, the French sailed out by
night from the Citadel of Bayonne. The 1st Battalion, together with
the 3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards put in a fierce bayonet charge
that forced the French to retire with heavy losses.
14th April 1945
ARGENTA GAP, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
On 14th April, the 2nd Battalion took part in one of the final
actions in Italy, the attack on the Argenta Ga. The Gap, lying
between two flooded areas, was defended by infantry and tanks in
strong positions. After four days of continuous fighting, through
minefields and under heavy fire, the Battalion captured its
objective on the far side of the enemy defences.
14th April 1945
UELZEN, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
On the night of the 14th April, a German armoured column penetrated
the harbour area of No 3 Squadron of the 4th (Tank) Battalion. After
the night of fierce and confused fighting , the squadron and its
supporting infantry repelled the counter-attack and inflicted heavy
losses on the enemy. The squadrons then fought their way on to
Uelzen, which fell on the 18th April.
5th May 1811 (On Colours)
FEUNTES D'ONOR PENINSULAR WAR
The 1st Battalion was present at this battle, and during its
preliminary stages, repulsed a French attack on the village of
Feuntes D'Onor. However the main battle was fought at another part
of the British line.
7th May 1943
TUNIS, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
On this day Tunis was entered by the leading elements of the 6th and
7th Armoured Divisions, in the former of which, the 2nd and 3rd
Battalions of the Regiment were serving. Although the fighting
lasted another week, the capture of this city was symbolic of the
end of all German resistance in North Africa.
8th May 1943
HAMMAM LIF, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
In order to evacuate their African forces from the Cap Bon
peninsular, the Germans delayed the British advance at Hammam Lif, a
narrow gap between a range of hills and the sea. The Welsh Guards
gained a foothold at one end of these hills, and on the night of 8th
May, the Second Battalion captured the rest of the ridge overlooking
the gap. Next day the armour broke through and the remains of the
Afrika Corps were rounded up.
8th May 1945
V.E. DAY WORLD WAR 2
During the Second World War, the Regiment maintained 5 service
Battalions in the field: some 850 Officers and 17500 other ranks
served in the Regiment. Total casualties were 250 Officers and 4,520
other ranks.
11th May 1745
FONTENOY
Fontenoy, although not a battle honour, was one of the most glorious
battles that the Brigade of Guards have ever taken part in. They
marched over half a mile under heavy fire to halt thirty yards away
from the French who then fired first with little effect; then the
British fired with deadly effect, decimating the enemy ranks. If
this attack had received proper support, a decisive victory would
have been won.
14th May 1940 (On Colours)
THE DYLE, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
On the 10th May 1940,the British Expeditionary Force moved forward
into Belgium to check the German advance into the Low Countries. The
1st Battalion took up position on the River Dyle, near Louvain, and
here they were attacked by German motorised troops. It was with
considerable difficulty that the forward troops were withdrawn from
close contact when the enemy forces when the Battalion retired some
two days later.
16th May 1785
FORMATION OF THE REGIMENTAL BAND
Twelve German Musicians were enlisted by the Duke of York, Colonel
of the Regiment, to replace the eight civilian performers who had
previously supplemented the "Drums" which had been formed in 1650.
21st May 1940
DEFENCE OF ESCAUT, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
During the withdrawal to Dunkirk, the Second Battalion was engaged
in heavy fighting at Pecq, an important crossing on the River Escaut,
which was denied which was denied to the Germans for 3 days until
the Battalion was ordered to retire.
27th May 1941
HALFAYA 1941, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
The 3rd Battalion supported only by a field battery and a few tanks,
was attacked by the 15th Panzer Division. After 24 hrs of heavy
fighting, the Battalion was ordered to withdraw and with great
difficulty slipped away from this overwhelming adversary. During
this battle there were 100 casualties in the Battalion.
28th May 1944
MONTE PICCOLO, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The 1st Guards Brigade was ordered to capture a German rear-guard
position that was holding up the advance of the Eighth Army. During
the early morning of the 28th of May the 2nd Battalion attacked and
took up positions on Monte Piccolo, which they defended against
savage German counter-attacks throughout the next day. On the
following morning it was discovered that the Germans had retired.
2nd June 1940
DUNKIRK, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
Both the 1st and 2nd Battalions were engaged in the heavy fighting
during the last days of the evacuation of Dunkirk. The 1st Battalion
at Furnes held out against determined German attempts to break into
the perimeter, until they were ordered to retire to the beaches on
the 1st June. On the west of the perimeter, the 2nd Battalion held a
position for 4 days against increasingly heavy attacks until told to
withdraw to Dunkirk as part of the rear-guard of the British
Expeditionary Force. They finally embarked for England on the 2nd
June. In this short campaign, each Battalion suffered nearly 200
casualties.
4th June 1902
SOUTH AFRICA 1899-1902
On this day the peace treaty that ended the South African War, in
which both the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the Regiment fought, was
signed. Although few large battles were fought, there were many
arduous marches and small engagements in which the Regiment well
acquitted itself.
12th June 1942 (On Colours)
KNIGHTSBRIDGE, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
On 17th May 1942,the 3rd Battalion, together with supporting
artillery, started to fortify the Knightsbridge "box", a vital
position in the British defence against Rommel's expected attack.
The "box" which was only a flat area of desert surrounded by barbed
wire, was first attacked by tanks on the 27th May, and from then on
it was incessantly shelled by German artillery. On the 7th June, a
determined attack made by infantry and tanks, was beaten off, and on
the 12th the Battalion was ordered to withdraw, which it did after
repulsing a further attack made by the Germans in a dust storm, in
which they lost 70 men. The defence of the Knightsbridge "box" for
eighteen days by the 3rd Battalion ranks as one of the finest
exploits of the Regiment in the Second World War.
16th June 1743 (On Colours)
DETTINGEN
An Army of British, Austrian and Hanoverian troops, commanded by
King George II, and defeated the French under Marshal Naoilles. The
1st Battalion, although present, were not heavily involved in this
battle, the last in which an English King personally commanded his
troops.
18th June 1815 (On Colours)
WATERLOO
The Duke of Wellington, with some 68,000 men was attacked by
Napoleons 72,000.The Light Companies of the Brigade of Guards
occupied the farm of Hougoumont, a key position on the right of the
allied line, under Lieutenant Colonel McDonnell of the Coldstream,
who was told by the Duke "to defend the post to the last extremity".
The French attacked Hougoumont for many hours but failed to capture
the position. This gallant defence had the decisive effect on the
result of the battle. After the battle, Sgt Graham, of the Second
Battalion, was awarded a special medal by the Sergeants of the
Regiment for his gallant conduct, having shut the gates of
Hougoumont in the face of the enemy. In later years, the Duke of
Wellington named this Sergeant as one of the bravest men in England.
20th June 1944
CAPTURE OF PERUGIA, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
On the 20th June 1944,the 2nd Battalion entered the town of Perugia,
and were then held up by strong enemy positions on Monte Pacciano.
On the 26th June, the 1st Guards Brigade captured these positions by
a night attack.
21st June 1942
TOBRUK 1942, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
After withdrawing from the Knightsbridge "box" on 13th June, the 3rd
Battalion joined the garrison of Tobruk. On the 21st June, orders
were given for the garrison to surrender, as further resistance was
not thought possible. However, the remain members of the Battalion,
some 17 Officers and 183 Other Ranks, refused to surrender and
fought their way out to rejoin the Eighth Army.
5th July 1942
DEFENCE OF THE ALAMEIN LINE, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
In the early weeks of July 1942,Rommel was making his final attempt
to advance into Egypt and reach the Suez Canal. Troops were needed
to check these attacks and so the weary remnants of the 3rd Bn and
the 2nd Bn Scots Guards, were formed into the Composite Guards
Battalion. This Battalion went into the line at Alamein on the 5th
July and held part of it for 5 days, before moving south to help
fight of the final German attacks.
11th July 1708 (On Colours)
OUDENARDE WAR OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION
Six Coldstream companies formed part of the Guards Composite
Regiment which took part in the fighting when the Allied Army under
the Duke of Marlborough defeated the French Army at Oudenarde.
15th July 1944
ARREZZO, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The 1st Guards Brigade was ordered to take Monte Ligano, a position
that was preventing 6th Armoured Division from entering the city of
Arrezzo. After the Grenadiers had captured part of the ridge, the
2nd Battalion passed through on the morning of the 5th July to seize
the rest of the hill. A heavy counter attack was launched by the
Germans as the companies left the start line but this was repulsed,
and the Battalion went on to capture it's objective after very heavy
fighting. By nightfall, the whole mountain was securely in our
hands, and Arrezzo fell on the following day.
18th July 1944
CAGNY, NORTHWEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
Operation "GOODWOOD" was the first stage of the breakout from the
Normandy beachhead, and the first action of the Guards Armoured
Division. Both the 1st Armoured Battalion and the 5th Battalions
took part in this attack, which was halted after very heavy
fighting, by a strong German anti-tank gun screen.
19th July 1693
LANDEN
The 1st Battalion formed parts of the Allied Army under the command
of King William III fighting the French the French far superior
numbers, but although they won the battle, they were unable to
follow up their success because their losses were too great. A
soldier of the Regiment captured the standard of the French
LifeGuards.
20th July 1680 (On Colours)
TANGIER
A company of the Regiment landed about the 20th July 1680, at
Tangier as part of a composite Guards Battalion. Fierce attacks were
made against the Moors, who had obtained a footing on the outworks
of the town, finally defeating them by controlled and well-aimed
musket fire. The Battalion remained in Tangier until it was
abandoned for political reasons.
22nd July 1812 (On Colours)
SALAMANCA
In this battle, the Duke of Wellington defeated the French under
General Marmont. The Light Company of the lst Battalion took part in
the defence of a key point in the British position. This victory
enabled Wellington to enter Madrid in the following month.
23rd July 1944
MONTE DOMINI, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The British advance on Florence was held up by German positions on
the 2,000 ft, high Monte Domini. An attempt to by-pass the mountain
having failed, the 3rd Battalion attacked, supported by tanks of the
Pretoria Regiment, and drove the enemy from their position. Next day
the advance continued.
28th July 1809 (On Colours)
TALAVERA
The lst Battalion took part in this two day battle, during which the
Brigade of Guards played an important part, making a decisive
counter attack, after having been thrown back by the French.
30th July 1944
MONT PINCON, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The lst, 4th and 5th Battalions took part in the attacks that took
place over the heavily wooded and hilly country, known as the
Normandy 'Bocage'. These attacks were intended to occupy large
German forces, leaving the American forces free to break out from
the Normandy beach-head.
30th July 1944 (On Colours)
QUARRY HILL (Hill No.309 near Caumont) WORLD WAR 2
On the 30th July 1944, 6th Guards Tank Brigade, in their first
action of the war, attacked southwards from Caumont in support of
the 15th Scottish Division. During the battle the 4th (Tank)
Battalion, although it had out-run its infantry, went on to seize
its final objective, Hill 309, and defended it until the infantry
arrived at midnight. On the 31st July, the Battalion helped to
defeat heavy German counter attacks directed against the hill. This
advance, largely due to the fighting qualities of the Coldstream
Battalion ensured that the break out from the beach-head was at last
under way.
31st July 1917 (On Colours)
YPRES 1917 WORLD WAR 1
The lst and 2nd Battalions, forming part of the Guards Division,
attacked to the east of the Yser Canal. The attack was very
successful; the line was advanced 3,000 yards to Pilckem. Private T
Whitham, of the lst Battalion, was awarded the Victoria Cross for
silencing a machine gun that was holding up the advance.
3rd August 1944
ADVANCE TO FLORENCE, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
From the beginning of June until the 3rd August, the 24th Guards
Brigade and the South African Armoured Division fought their way to
Florence. The Germans fought fierce rear-guard actions and the 3rd
Battalion was involved in several battles, the last of which took
place on the 3rd August at San Gersole, a small town two miles
outside Florence. This was the last resistance offered by the
Germans south of the River Arno, and the Scots Guards entered
Florence the following day. The 2nd Battalion also took part in the
advances as part of the 6th Armoured Division.
6th August 1944
ESTRY, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
In an operation designed to protect the flank of the Guards Armoured
Division, the 4th (Tank) Battalion attacked near Estry in the BOCAGE
on 6th August. A vigorous and well co-ordinated German defence
caused many casualties amongst tanks and the supporting infantry and
the attack was only a partial success.
13th August 1650
THE FORMATION OF THE REGIMENT
On this day in 1650, Oliver Cromwell formed a Regiment of Foot for
Colonel George Monck, with men from Hazelrigge's and Fenwick's
Regiments. Both these Regiments had been part of the New Model Army
of 1645, and took part in the final battles of the First Civil War.
18th August 1793 (On Colours)
LINCELLES WAR OF THE FRENCHREVOLUTION
The British Forces fighting against the French in the Low Countries
during the years 1793-5 were commanded by HRH Frederick, Duke of
York, the 13th Colonel of the Regiment. During this campaign, after
a long day's march, the Brigade of Guards, in which the lst
Battalion was serving, stormed and captured the village of Lincelles,
which was held by numerically superior French forces.
18th August 1940
EGYPTIAN FRONTIER 1940, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
On the 18th August 1940, the 3rd Battalion took up positions at
Sollum, on the Egyptian-Libyan frontier, and spent the next month
actively patrolling against the Italian forces. They were attacked
on 13th September by three Italian divisions and a tank group, and
were forced to withdraw to Mersa Matruh.
20th August 1695
NAMUR
The lst Battalion took part in the attack made by the Brigade of
Guards against the outworks of Namur. The Brigade moved up to the
enemy's position, and reserving their fire until the last moment,
charged through the outworks of the city, which fell some days
later. The Brigade forces in this battle were commanded by Lord
Cutts, 4th Colonel of the Regiment.
21st August 1918 (On Colours)
SOMME 1918 WORLD WAR 1
During the Guards Division attack on 21st August 1918, the lst
Battalion captured the village of Moyenville, without serios loss.
25th August 1914 (On Colours)
RETREAT FROM MONS WORLD WAR 1
At Landrecies, on the evening of the 25th August 1914, the 3rd
Battalion acting as rear-guard to 4th Guards Brigade, fought its
first action since it was formed in 1897. Throughout the night, the
Battalion fought off fierce German attacks until ordered to retire.
During this action, a haystack was set on fire, disclosing our
positions to the enemy and enabling them to fire at point blank
range with a field gun. Private G H Wyatt twice went out to
extinguish the blaze under heavy fire, and was later awarded the
Victoria Cross for his gallantry.
27th August 1918 (On Colours)
ARRAS 1918 WORLD WAR 1
At 7 a.m. the 2nd Battalion, leading the lst Guards Brigade,
launched an attack on an important system of German trenches east of
St.Leger. The enemy position was taken the same day, but the
battalion lost 10 Officers and 314 men.
1st September 1914 (On Colours)
RETREAT FROM MONS WORLD WAR 1
Both the 2nd and 3rd Battalions were engaged in a rear-guard action
at Villers-Cotterets during the Retreat from Mons.
3rd September 1944
BRUSSELS, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The Guards Armoured Division, in which the lst (Armoured) and the
5th Battalions were serving, reached Brussels on the night of 3rd
September, having left Douai, 93 miles away, that morning. This was
the highlight of the allied armoured drive across north-west Europe,
and constituted the longest advance in one day by a division in the
history of war.
8th September 1914 (On Colours)
MARNE WORLD WAR 1
When the Allied Armies has retreated to almost within sight of
Paris, they were given the order to advance to exploit the mistakes
made by the German Army. All three Battalions took part in the
Battle of the Marne, without, however, being engaged in any heavy
fighting.
8th September 1944
HEPPEN, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 1
On the 8th September 1944, the 5th Battalion supported by tanks of
the lst (Armoured) Battalion, advanced to try to capture Bourg
Leopold. In spite of launching five attacks in 36 hours, the
Coldstream Group could not capture Bourg Leopold itself, but
established itself in Heppen.
9th September 1855
SEVASTOPOL CRIMEAN WAR
The lst Battalion was present throughtout the siege, which lasted a
year and which, ended on this day with the Russians abandoning the
fortress.
10th September 1943 (On Colours)
SALERNO, ITALY WORLD WAR 1
The 3rd Battalion landed at Salerno as part of the 201st Guards
Brigade, and on the 10th September it was first involved in heavy
and confused fighting which lasted for four days, until it
established itself in the line of a canal four miles inland.
11th September 1709 (On Colours)
MALPLAQUET WAR OF THE SPANISH SUCCESSION
The Allied Army under the Duke of Marlborough gained a victory over
the French Army. The Coldstream were on the right of Lord Orkney's
force, which attacked the French line. A contemporary record
mentions the losses of the Regiment as the heaviest of the twenty
British battalions involved.
13th September 1882 (On Colours)
TEL-EL-KEBIR & EGYPT 1882
The 2nd Battalion formed part of a Guards Brigade that was present
at this victory over the Egyptian rebel, Arabi Pasha. After the
battle, which took place after a long night march across the desert,
Cairo was occupied by British troops.
13th September 1943
BATTIPAGLIA, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
In attempts to crush the Salerno beach-head, the Germans launched
determined and savage counter attacks. On the night of 13th
September two Battalions made the last great attack and 50 tanks
against the positions held by the 3td Battalion. For an hour and
half there was heavy fighting, during which time the Battalion fired
54,000 rounds of S.A.A. ammunition. The attack was finally beaten
off with heavy losses to the enemy.
14th September 1914 (On Colours)
AISNE 1914 WORLD WAR 1
In the advance across the River Aisne, all three Battalions of the
Regiment were involved in much bitter fighting. After this battle,
both sides settled down to the trench warfare that was to last for
four years.
15th September 1916 (On Colours)
SOMME 1916 WORLD WAR 1
The lst, 2nd and 3rd Battalions, in line attacked the German
trenches at Ginchy, and in spite of severe loses and great
opposition gained their objectives. At a critical moment in the
battle, Lieutenant Colonel J.V. Campbell DSO, rallied the 3rd
Battalion with his hunting horn, and led them in a successful
attack. Later the same day, he led a further successful attack,
being himself one for the first to enter the enemy trenches; for his
gallantry he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
20th September 1854 (On Colours)
ALMA CRIMEAN WAR
The lst Battalion was engaged in this, the first battle of the
Crimean War. Whilst crossing the River Alma, the Battalion lost its
formation, and so, in spite of the enemy being only 600 yards away,
the markers were called out and the Campanies formed up on them. The
Battalion then wheeled into line before advancing to the assault.
23rd September 1944
THE NEDERRIJN, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
Attempting to reach the Airborne Division who ere fighting for the
bridges over the Nederrijn at Arnhem, 30 Corps advanced along the
Eindhoven-Arnhem road, leaving the flanks to be cleared later. On
22nd September, the Germans cut the supply route and the Coldstream
Group, composed of the lst (Armoured) and 5th Battalions, was
ordered to clear the road. The next day, in bitter fighting that
lasted for two hours, the Group cleared the village of Vokel and
re-opened the road to supplies.
25th September 1916 (On Colours)
SOMME WORLD WAR 1
The Guards Division, in which the lst, 2nd and 3rd Battalion were
serving was engaged in an attack on Les Boeufs. The attack was
completely successful.
25th September 1943
CAPPEZANO (Hill 270 near Salerno) ITALY WORLD WAR 2
Two weeks after landing at Salerno, the 3rd Battalion was engaged in
bitter fighting in the advance towards Naples. They attacked a
dominant feature, known as Hill 270, defended by a Battalion of
Panzer Grenadiers, and despite intense opposition severe casualties,
the position was captured and held.
In this battle, CSM Wright won the Victoria Cross for his
magnificent leadership and outstanding bravery. All the Officers in
his Company being either killed or wounded, he rallied the Company
under heavy fire, and led them on to their objective. During the
attack, he attacked, single-handed, three machine gun posts and
silenced each one with his bayonet and hand-grenades. Later, with
complete disregard of heavy enemy shell fire, he re-organised the
Company which then successfully fought off a fierce counter attack.
27th September 1915 (On Colours)
LOOS WORLD WAR 1
All four Coldstream Battalions took part in this battle, the first
fought by the Guards Division. On the 27th September the lst
Battalion recaptured a wood, and in spite of heavy casualties held
it until relieved two days later. On the 8th October the 2nd and 3rd
Battalions fought off a determined German counter attack, during
which LSgt Brooks recaptured a trench, winning the Victoria Cross.
27th September 1918 (On Colours)
HINDENBURG LINE WORLD WAR 1
On the 27th September the 1st Battalion attacked across the Canal du
Nod. During the advance, Captain C H Frisbee and LCpl T N Jackson
each won the Victoria Cross for rushing enemy machine gun posts that
were holding up the advance. Due to the heavy opposition, it was not
until evening that the German resistance was overcome.
1st October 1944
CATARELTO RIDGE, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
Whilst the Scots Guards and the Grenadier Guards were engaged in
heavy fighting on the Catarelto Ridge, the 3rd Battalion were
ordered to advance on the opposite side of the valley. Supported by
tanks of the Pretoria Regiment the Companies advanced until held up
by extremely heavy shell and machine gun fire. The Battalion then
dug in and remained in these positions until the 3rd October, when
it was discovered that the enemy had retired.
3rd October 1944
BATTAGLIA, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The 2nd Battalion held this mountain position for 30 days against
incessent German attacks and heavy and accurate shell fire, and
despite appalling conditions of rain, mud and cold. One company
position could only be reached by the use of ropes, owing to the
slippery conditions of the steep path leading up to it.
9th October 1917 (On Colours)
YPRES 1917 WORLD WAR 1
The 2nd and 3rd Battalions attacked the German defences south of the
Houthulst Forest, and in spite of the appallingly thick mud, took
and held their objective.
9th October 1918 (On Colours)
CAMBRAI 1918 WORLD WAR 1
During the final advance to victory in 1918, the various Battalions
of the Regiment, serving in the Guards Division fought many fierce
actions with the enemy; that of the 2nd Battalion at Wambaix was
typical, with the Germans fighting fiercely for every yard that they
retreated.
12th October 1944
VENRAIJ, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The 3rd Division, supported by the 6th Guards Tank Brigade, attacked
on 12th October, the object of widening the allied corridor leading
to nijmegen. The 4th (Tank) Battalion attacked towards Venraij,
which fell 7 days later after fierce fighting, during which the
tanks were severely handicapped by mines, mud and rain. The success
of the operation lessened the threat to the communications of 21
Army Group.
15th October 1943
VOLTURNO CROSSING, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
After the fall of Naples, the Germans fell back to their Winter
Line; a position of immense natural strength. On the 15th October,
the 3rd Battalion crossed the River Volturno, the southernmost
outpost of the Winter Line, and for the next week, advanced slowly
through mountainous country, sometimes fighting and at other times,
carrying supplies for the remainder of the Brigade.
21st October 1914 (On Colours)
YPRES 1914 WORLD WAR 1
The 4th Guards Brigade, with the 2nd and 3rd Battalions leading,
attacked some high ground covering Langemarck. In spite of fierce
German opposition, the feature was taken, and held until the
Battalion was relieved on the 23rd October.
29th October 1914 (On Colours)
YPRES 1914 WORLD WAR 1
The Germans attacked the Ypres Salient, attempting to break through
to the Channel Ports and sever the lines of communication of the
British Expeditionary Forces. The 1st Battalion at Gheluvelt lost
all 11 Combatant Officers and was reduced to a party of 60 other
ranks under the Quartermaster. The 2nd and 3rd Battalions
successfully defended Zonnebeke some 3 miles to the North.
30th October 1944
MEIJEL, NORTH WEST EUROPE WORLD WAR 2
The 6th Guards Tank Brigade was hurriedly summoned from another part
of the Front to help repel a German counter attack made by two
German Panzer Divisions. This battle was fought by squadrons of the
4th (Tank) Battalion in support of infantry battalions advancing
along the road towards the village of Meijel. Resistance was heavy
and the mud often seriously delayed tanks.
5th November 1854 (On Colours)
INKERMAN CRIMEAN WAR
In this battle, sometimes known as the 'Soldiers Battle', the lst
Battalion formed part of the Guards Brigade, which was called
forward to repel Russian attacks during the early morning of 5th
November. For two hours, the Brigade fought off Russian columns,
vastly superior in numbers, until the enemy was finally repulsed.
6th November 1943
CALABRITTO, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
The approaches to the Winter Line were completely dominated by the
German position on Monte Camino. 201 Guards Brigade was allotted the
task of assaulting the mountain, with the 3rd Battalion securing the
lower slopes, together with the small town of Calabritto, which lay
at its base. The Battalion occupied the town at dawn on the 7th
November after hard fighting on the previous day, and remained there
for the next three days to protect the flanks of the remainder of
the Brigade, who were fighting fiercely to maintain their positions
on Monte Camino.
10th November 1943
MONTE CAMINO, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
On the 10th November, the 3rd Battalion relieved the Grenadiers on
the slopes of Monte Caiman, and then occupied the positions, on the
open mountainside in appalling weather and under continuous enemy
shellfire, until the Brigade was ordered to retire on the 14th
November. The attack was renewed on the 2nd December, with the 3rd
Battalion taking up its old positions, but the next day they could
only advance some 1,000 yards. Here they remained, isolated for the
next two days, without rations or water, under heavy fire from enemy
snipers and mortars, and in bitterly cold weather. On the 8th
December, the remainder of the Brigade passed through to clear the
far side of the mountain.
11th November 1918 (On Colours)
ARMISTICE DAY
Armistice Day found the Guards Division at Maubeuge, no great
distance from where the British Expeditionary Force first fought in
1914. Since August 1914, the Regiment maintained four Service
Battalions in the field. During the War 584 Officers and 20,072
Other Ranks served in the Regiment, whilst the total casualties were
515 Officers and 13,269 Other Ranks.
18th November 1941
TOBRUK 1941, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
This day saw the start of the final and successful attempt to
relieve Tobruk, which had been beseiged for months, and clear the
way to Cyrenaica. The 3rd Battalion took part in a number of small
engagements, and finally led the advance for the last 100 miles, in
difficult conditions to Agheila.
22nd November 1918 WORLD WAR 1
In recognition of their service during World War 1, His Majesty King
George V, authorised 'Private' in the Brigade of Guards to be known
in future by the title of 'Guardsman'.
27th November 1917 (On Colours)
CAMBRAI 1917 WORLD WAR 1
The lst Battalion attacked and captured the village of Fontaine
Notre Dame, taking 500 prisoners. Unfortunately the Battalion's
losses were so great, that they were unable to find sufficient
escorts and nearly half the prisoners escaped. The Germans then
counter attacked and the Battalion was ordered to withdraw to the
original Front Line.
28th November 1899 (On Colours)
MODDER RIVER SOUTH AFRICAN WAR
Both the lst and 2nd Battalions fought in the Guards Brigade, which
had been sent to South Africa at the outbreak of war. During this
battle, the Brigade, which was part of the force advancing to
relieve Kimberley, came under heavy fire whilst trying to force a
river crossing. The troops lay under fire in the blazing sun until
dusk when they were withdrawn. Next morning, it was discovered that
the Boers had retreated during the night.
30th November 1917 (On Colours)
CAMBRAI 1917 WORLD WAR 2
The Guards Division was called forward to help stem a German break
through. On the 30th November, the 2nd and 3rd Battalions counter
attacked at Gouzeaucourt, without artillery support and in spite of
intense machine gun fire regained the lost positions.
4th December 1944
MONTE PENZOLA, ITALY WORLD WAR 2
On this day the 2nd Battalion attacked Monte Penzola to clear the
way for the 6th Armoured Division to drive down the Santerno Valley.
The attack was entirely successful, and the Battalion then remained
for three days under heavy fire.
8th December 1659
The Regiment took up its quarters in the town of Coldstream in
Scotland from whence it takes its name.
10th December 1940
SIDI BARRANI, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
The 3rd Battalion took part in the first victory of the war; the
capture of Sidi Barrani and 6,5oo prisoners by a small British
force. On the 9th December, the Battalion captured Fort Maktilla,
and, on the following day, took part in the final storm of Sidi
Barrani.
13th December 1813 (On Colours)
NIVE PENINSULA WAR
The lst Battalion helped to force the passage of the River Nive,
thus opening the way for Wellington's army to enter France.
24th December 1942 (On Colours)
LONGSTOP HILL, NORTH AFRICA WORLD WAR 2
On the 22nd December, the 2nd Battalion attacked Long stop Hill,
near Medjez-el-Bab, in order to clear the way for a British drive on
Tunis. Once the hill was captured about midnight, the position was
handed over to an American unit, and then the Battalion marched back
12 miles, through heavy rain to a rest area. However on the 23rd
December, the Germans successfully counter attacked, and the
Battalion had to go forward again and recapture the hill on the
evening of the 23rd. Heavy counter attacks by infantry and tanks on
Christmas Day forced the Americans and the Battalions off the hill,
and at 1000 hours they were ordered to withdraw, having suffered in
this particular fierce battle some 10 Officers and 200 men killed or
wounded.
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DOWNLOAD PDF DOCUMENTS (coming soon):
The information above is available to download below.
A Brief Regimental History of the Coldstream Guards
Battle Honours of the Coldstream Guards
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