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Foot guards are senior infantry regiments within the British Army and the Canadian Army whose primary role includes military and combat operations, while its secondary role include public duties responsibilities which reflect their senior status.[1][2] Foot guards regiments were historically infantry soldiers who fought on foot who also performed public duties like mounting a guard.[3]

The British foot guards were established in the 17th century, and served as an infantry unit and royal guards for the monarchy. In the 19th century, the Canadian foot guard were formed, modelled after their British counterparts as a reflection of Canada’s relationship with the monarchy and to undertake ceremonial duties in Ottawa. Historically, other countries have also maintained units called "foot guards," though not all of these were the senior infantry regiments of their forces or were units that were tasked with both military combat responsibilities and ceremonial public duties.

As of 2025, the British Army maintains five regiments of foot guards, while the Canadian Army Reserve maintains two regiments of foot guards. While most foot guard units continue to serve in light infantry or infantry roles, two of the five British foot guards regiments have transitioned to mechanised infantry roles.

United Kingdom

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The Grenadier Guards performing public duties during the 2015 State Opening of Parliament by Queen Elizabeth II, accompanying her procession to the Palace of Westminster.

The British Army maintains five regiments of foot guards. The Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, and Irish Guards specialise in infantry and light infantry roles, while the Scots Guards and Welsh Guards specialise in mechanised and light mechanised infantry roles.[3] The five foot guard regiments form the infantry component of the Household Division.[1]

History

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The oldest foot guards regiment dates back to 1642. Foot guards units have historically been front-line troops, with their ceremonial public duties always being a secondary function. As royal guards to the British monarch, the foot guards have accumulated unique privileges and traditions over its existence.[4] The reigning British monarch traditionally serves as the colonel-in-chief of the regiments within the Household Division.[5]

The three oldest regiments—the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, and Scots Guards—were formed during the English Civil War, while the Irish Guards and Welsh Guards were established in the 20th century. The Irish Guards were created in 1900 after Queen Victoria was impressed by the actions of Irish units during the Second Boer War. The Welsh Guards were formed in 1915 by King George V, after it was pointed out that the Household Division lacked representation from Wales.[4] A sixth regiment of foot guards briefly existed after the First World War, the Guards Machine Gun Regiment.[5]

Public duties

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The regiments of the foot guards are responsible for performing public duties, most notably mounting the King's Guard at St. James's Palace and Buckingham Palace, as well as mounting the Windsor Castle Guard, and the Tower of London Guard, all key locations of significance to the monarchy. Although the regiments of foot guards perform the majority of these public duties, they occasionally are supported by other units in the British Armed Forces and the Commonwealth of Nations.[5]

Historically, the foot guards also manned ten other sentry posts around London, including Horse Guards, Savoy Prison, and Montagu House.[5]

Canada

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Members of the Governor General's Foot Guards mount a sentry post at Rideau Hall. The unit is one of two regiments of foot guards in Canada.

The Canadian Army Reserve includes two regiments of foot guards, the Governor General's Foot Guards and the Canadian Grenadier Guards, both formed in the 19th century.[2][6][7] The two regiments of foot guards are the senior reserve infantry regiments in Canada and train in an infantry role to support Canadian Armed Forces domestic operations and support the Regular Force in international operations.[2][7] The two units form part of Canada's household troops and serve as a symbol of the armed forces' relationship with the Canadian monarchy, tasked with public duties in Ottawa as a result.[8]

The Canadian Army Regular Force also established a foot guard regiment in 1953, known as the Canadian Guards. However, the unit was reduced to nil strength in 1970 and reassigned to the army's Supplementary Order of Battle.[9]

The Royal Regiment of Canada is another Army Reserve unit that is uniformed as a regiment of foot guards, although they are formally a line infantry regiment.[6] The regiment adopted the uniform of its predecessor, the Royal Grenadiers, which was uniformed after the British Grenadier Guards.[10]

Public duties

[edit]

Along with their infantry role, the two regiments of foot guards are also tasked with ceremonial public duties at Rideau Hall and Parliament Hill in Ottawa as the country's household troops.[2][7][8] While both units perform public duties in the capital, only the Governor General's Foot Guards are based in Ottawa, with the Canadian Grenadier Guards based in Montreal.[2][7]

In addition to supporting ceremonial duties at Rideau Hall and other events for the Governor General of Canada, the Governor General's Foot Guards' Public Duties Company also oversees the Ceremonial Guard. The Ceremonial Guard is a subunit of the Governor General's Foot Guards that operates during the summer and is open to members of the Canadian Armed Forces who want to participate in ceremonial public duties. Service members in the Ceremonial Guard wear the uniforms of the two Canadian foot guard regiments, regardless of their actual regimental or unit affiliation, as they perform public duties traditionally carried out by the foot guard regiments.[8]

Other historical uses

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Germany

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1st Foot Guards of the Imperial German Army form a guard of honour for Emperor Wilhelm II and Prince Oskar of Prussia, 1898.

The Prussian Army of the Kingdom of Prussia and the Imperial German Army of the German Empire operated several Garde-Regiment zu Fuß (lit. 'guard regiment on foot') units, including the 1st Foot Guards, 3rd Foot Guards, 4th Foot Guards, and 5th Foot Guards. All Prussian princes received their military commission through the 1st Foot Guards.[11]

Japan

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The hatamoto were high-ranking samurai who served as personally served the daimyo in feudal Japan during the Tokugawa shogunate that included a subgroup called the kachi or "Foot Guards", and the umamawari-shū or "Horse Guards". However, only the umamawari-shū were tasked as bodyguards for the daimyo, while the kachi were not assigned ceremonial duties and engaged in combat as part of their training for higher positions.[12]

See also

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Footnotes

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Foot guards

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Foot guards are elite infantry regiments serving as household troops and ceremonial guards in various monarchies' armed forces, including the British Army and the Canadian Army. In the British Army, the Foot Guards comprise the five senior infantry regiments—Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, Scots Guards, Irish Guards, and Welsh Guards—that form the infantry component of the Household Division, serving as the monarch's personal bodyguard and elite combat troops. Similar units exist in Canada, such as the Governor General's Foot Guards. These British regiments trace their origins to the 17th century, with the Coldstream Guards established in 1650 as the oldest continuously serving regiment, followed by the Grenadier Guards in 1656 and the Scots Guards in 1660, while the Irish and Welsh Guards were formed later in 1900 and 1915, respectively, to represent their nations. Historically, the Foot Guards have participated in nearly every major British since their inception, from the and the to modern conflicts including the World Wars, the , , and , where all five regiments saw active service. Their combat role emphasizes operations, fighting on foot with light weapons such as machine guns and mortars, supported by vehicles for mobility, reconnaissance, and mechanized tasks, enabling rapid deployment by land, air, or sea. In addition to their battlefield prowess, the Foot Guards fulfill prominent ceremonial duties, including mounting the guard at royal palaces like and , participating in , and leading state processions, all while maintaining the distinctive caps and scarlet tunics that symbolize their prestige. These traditions underscore their unique position as both guardians of and versatile frontline soldiers, with battalions rotating between public duties in and operational training in locations such as , , and the .

Overview

Definition and Role

Foot guards are regiments tasked with the protection of monarchs or heads of state, combining ceremonial prominence with combat capabilities as highly trained foot soldiers. In their primary role, they serve as the personal to the , ensuring the security of royal residences and participating in state events, while also functioning as frontline units deployable for operational missions worldwide. This dual mandate distinguishes them as both symbolic guardians of national authority and professional warriors, with a tradition of rigorous that emphasizes discipline, fitness, and tactical proficiency. Unlike horse guards, which are cavalry formations mounted on horseback and focused on reconnaissance and rapid response, foot guards operate exclusively on foot, utilizing light weapons such as machine guns and mortars alongside vehicles for battlefield mobility. They also differ from line infantry regiments, which lack the same guard status and ceremonial obligations, by holding elevated positions in the military order of precedence due to their longstanding ties to the monarchy and elite reputation. Selection into foot guards involves demanding physical assessments, including strength tests like the mid-thigh pull and endurance runs, ensuring only the most capable soldiers join these prestigious units. Their roles exemplify a balance of tradition and modernity, including palace security at sites like , ceremonial duties in events such as state funerals and the Trooping of the Colour, and combat deployments in conflicts like those in or peacekeeping operations under and UN auspices. Historically, foot guards have seen extensive front-line service in major campaigns, reinforcing their status as combat-proven elite troops rather than merely ornamental forces. The British foot guards regiments serve as the archetype for this institution, influencing similar units in Commonwealth nations.

Uniforms and Insignia

The uniforms of foot guards have evolved significantly since their inception in the , transitioning from practical coats and tricorn hats suited for battlefield mobility to elaborate ceremonial attire emphasizing regimental prestige by the . Early designs, introduced around 1660 under Charles II, featured simple red coats with minimal ornamentation for the English Guards, reflecting influences from continental European armies. By the , uniforms incorporated more symbolic elements, such as caps, to denote elite status, with full scarlet tunics and brass accoutrements becoming standardized for ceremonial splendor in the Victorian period. The most iconic feature of British-style foot guards uniforms is the cap, derived from the mitre-shaped headgear worn by grenadier companies in the to intimidate foes with added height and ferocity. Following the in 1815, where the Grenadier Guards defeated Napoleon's —known for their own bearskins—the British regiment adopted the headdress as a permanent honor, later extending it to other foot guards units. Made from the fur of Canadian black bears (culled under a management program), each bearskin measures approximately 18 inches (46 cm) tall and weighs 1.5 pounds (0.68 kg), with officers' versions using thicker female fur dyed black. While modern regulations standardize the height, historical variations adjusted for the soldier's stature to maintain proportions, contributing to the perception of regiment-specific differences in appearance. Scarlet tunics form the core of ceremonial for foot guards, known as No. 1 , featuring dark blue trousers or kilts (for ) and white cross-belts, with gold for officers and silver buttons for other ranks. Regimental distinctions are conveyed through button arrangements, plume colors and positions, and collar badges on the , allowing instant identification during parades. For combat roles, guards adapt to field uniforms like No. 4 (working ) or combat attire, retaining insignia but prioritizing functionality over ornamentation.
RegimentButton SpacingPlume Color/PositionCollar BadgeShoulder Badge
Grenadier GuardsEqually spacedWhite (left side)Flaming grenadeNone
Coldstream GuardsIn pairsRed (right side)Garter starRose
Scots GuardsIn threesNone
Irish GuardsIn fours (right side)
Welsh GuardsIn fivesWhite/green (left side)
Insignia further distinguish ranks and roles within foot guards, with shoulder titles like "" embroidered in gold, and collar badges reflecting regimental heritage. Unique to guards regiments, non-commissioned officers and warrant officers wear specialized lace patterns and the for senior positions, underscoring their elevated status equivalent to higher pay grades in (e.g., Guardsmen rank as lance corporals in seniority but wear private ).

History

Origins in Europe

The emergence of foot guard units in during the 16th and 17th centuries marked a shift toward professionalized dedicated to the personal protection of monarchs amid widespread political and religious turmoil. These formations arose as monarchs sought reliable forces to safeguard against internal threats, such as rebellions and intrigues, supplementing or replacing less dependable feudal levies. Drawing on longstanding traditions of disciplined from and the German states, who were renowned for their pike formations and unwavering loyalty in contract service, European rulers began organizing permanent guard companies that emphasized quality over quantity. This influence provided a model for recruiting tough, apolitical soldiers capable of close-quarters defense, ensuring the sovereign's security in an era of fragile absolutism. Among the earliest such units were the Swedish Life Guards, tracing their origins to the 1520s as a small bodyguard contingent for Gustav Vasa during Sweden's consolidation as a modern state following the . Initially comprising a mix of native Swedes and German mercenaries, the unit functioned primarily as mounted protectors but transitioned to a formalized role in the early 1600s, with the regiment designated as His Majesty's Life Guards of Foot by 1700 to reflect its emphasis. Recruited from noble families and loyal provinces like , the guards exemplified the elite status of these early formations, limited to officers of noble birth until the to maintain aristocratic ties and trustworthiness. Their structure began as compact companies of around 100-200 men, focused on palace security and rapid response, before expanding amid Sweden's imperial ambitions in the . In , foot guard traditions in 1616 under incorporated elements into the royal household, building on earlier cavalry-oriented Garde du Corps units established in the late . formalized the as a dedicated of approximately 2,400 men, tasked with palace defense and ceremonial duties, leveraging the Swiss reputation for steadfast service honed through centuries of contracts across . These guards were drawn from Swiss cantons via bilateral agreements, ensuring neutrality and reliability in a kingdom riven by Huguenot revolts and noble factions; their initial organization featured specialized companies for urban patrolling and escort, evolving from levies into a by the 1630s. British developments paralleled these continental efforts, with precursors to professional foot guards rooted in the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms, founded by in 1509 as an elite mounted bodyguard of 40 gentlemen pensioners selected from the for their valor and court proximity. This ceremonial yet combat-ready unit served as a model during the (1642-1651), where royalist forces reorganized it into dismounted infantry roles, leading to the post-war establishment of standing foot guard regiments like the 1st Foot Guards in 1656. Recruitment prioritized gentlemen volunteers from trusted English shires and exiled loyalists, forming small companies of 100-150 elite halberdiers and that emphasized drill and personal allegiance to over broader . Russia's contributions to this began under , who in 1683 assembled the Preobrazhensky Regiment from boyar children and trusted retainers in the village of Preobrazhenskoe near , initially as a "toy army" for military experimentation. By 1687, this evolved into a formal foot guard alongside the Semenovsky Regiment, both serving as Peter's personal protectors during his power struggles against the regency and unrest. Motivated by the need for a modernized force loyal to the amid the ' legacy, these units recruited from noble clans and Finnish border regions for their perceived dependability, starting as elite companies of 300-500 men trained in Western tactics before regimenting into larger battalions. Across these nations, the initial structure of foot guards prioritized compactness and exclusivity: small companies of 50-200 soldiers, often billeted at royal residences, focused on immediate defense rather than field campaigns. Expansion to full regiments occurred as fiscal stability allowed, with recruitment favoring for roles and sturdy yeomen from "trusted regions"—such as Swiss valleys, German principalities, or loyal heartlands—to minimize risks and foster through shared regional bonds or class solidarity. This approach not only ensured monarchal security but laid the groundwork for professional standing armies in .

Development Through the Centuries

In the , foot guards units across solidified their elite status through participation in major conflicts, which spurred organizational growth and heightened prestige. British Foot Guards, for instance, fought prominently in the (1701–1714), with the First Foot Guards serving under the Duke of Marlborough at battles such as Blenheim (1704) and Ramillies (1706), contributing to Allied victories that enhanced their reputation as premier infantry. During the Seven Years' War (1756–1763), the Grenadier Guards (then First Foot Guards) expanded to three battalions by 1760 and engaged in operations like the raid on St. Malo (1758) and the Battle of Wilhelmsthal (1762) in , demonstrating tactical versatility and further elevating their standing within the . These campaigns not only increased unit sizes to meet wartime demands but also reinforced foot guards' role as symbols of national military excellence. The 19th century brought profound reforms to foot guards, driven by the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), which tested and professionalized these units while prompting the integration of national regiments. British foot guards endured heavy combat in the Peninsular War and at Waterloo (1815), where the Scots Guards defended Hougoumont farm and the Grenadier Guards repelled French assaults, earning enduring acclaim for their discipline under fire. Post-Waterloo, reforms emphasized merit-based promotion and standardized training, transforming guards into a more professional force; the Scots Fusilier Guards, for example, were redesignated the Scots Guards in 1877 to reflect national identity, while the Irish Guards were established in 1900 to represent Ireland within the Household Division. These changes, alongside conflicts like the Crimean War (1854–1856) at Alma and Inkerman, where guards units earned early Victoria Crosses, marked a shift toward a balanced elite force capable of both imperial policing and high-intensity warfare. The 20th century witnessed foot guards adapting from ceremonial traditions to intensive combat roles amid global wars, with post-monarchical shifts leading to declines in some nations but resilience in others. In the First World War (1914–1918), British foot guards expanded dramatically— the Grenadier Guards added fourth and fifth battalions—and suffered heavy losses at Ypres, the Somme, and Passchendaele, blurring lines between parade-ground duties and trench warfare. The Second World War (1939–1945) saw further evolution, with guards units like the Scots Guards fighting in North Africa, Italy, and Northwest Europe, including operations at Caen and Arnhem, while maintaining royal bodyguard functions. In republics emerging from revolutions, foot guards often dissolved: France's Gardes Françaises, the royal foot guard, mutinied during the 1789 Revolution, were absorbed into the National Guard, and fully disbanded in 1792 with the monarchy's abolition. Similarly, Russia's Imperial Guard regiments, including foot units like the Semyonovsky and Preobrazhensky, disintegrated in 1917 amid the February Revolution and Bolshevik takeover, as monarchy-dependent institutions collapsed. Conversely, in constitutional monarchies such as the United Kingdom, foot guards persisted, blending combat prowess with ceremonial roles. The British foot guards model exerted significant global influence, exported to colonies and allies, which fostered similar units in Commonwealth nations. This tradition inspired the formation of the in in 1872, explicitly modelled on Britain's Household Troops to provide ceremonial and reserve infantry support. By the mid-20th century, this export extended to a broader "Guards tradition across the British World," including the creation of a Canadian Guards in 1937, ensuring the endurance of foot guards concepts in post-colonial militaries.

United Kingdom

Formation and Early History

The British Foot Guards trace their origins to the mid-17th century, emerging during the turbulent period of the and the subsequent Restoration of the monarchy. The , the oldest continuously serving regiment, was formed in 1650 under the command of George Monck as part of the , participating in key engagements such as the Battle of Dunbar against Scottish Royalist forces. Following the Restoration in 1660, Monck's regiment was renamed the Lord General's Regiment of Foot Guards and tasked with protecting the newly reinstated King Charles II, symbolizing stability after years of conflict. The Grenadier Guards originated in 1656 in Bruges, , when Charles II, in exile after the , raised a Royal Regiment of Guards from loyal Royalist exiles as his personal bodyguard. Upon his return to in 1660, this regiment was merged with another to form the 1st Regiment of Foot Guards, earning its first battle honor in 1680 while defending the English colony of . The were established in 1660 by royal warrant from Charles II, drawing from Scottish personnel to create a dedicated national regiment for household protection duties, reflecting the integration of Scottish elements into the royal guard structure. In the early years, these regiments primarily served in protective roles for the monarchy while engaging in active combat during domestic and foreign conflicts. During the English Civil War and Interregnum, units like the Coldstream Guards shifted allegiances to support the Restoration, marching from Coldstream to London in 1660 to reinstate parliamentary authority and suppress potential mutinies, ensuring their survival as elite foot guards. By the late 17th century, the three regiments—Grenadier, Coldstream, and Scots—had expanded to form the core of the Brigade of Guards, focusing on ceremonial duties in London alongside battlefield service. Regimental precedence was formalized based on seniority and royal favor, with the Grenadier Guards granted first position due to their direct association with Charles II's exile forces, followed by the Coldstream Guards despite their earlier formation, and then the Scots Guards. This order, established through battle honors and royal decree, has endured, emphasizing the Guards' elite status over line infantry. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Foot Guards played pivotal roles in major campaigns, solidifying their reputation as . In the American Revolution, a composite —drawn from detachments of the three senior regiments—was dispatched in under Leslie, participating in operations such as the capture of New York and Harlem Heights, where they endured harsh colonial conditions and . During the Napoleonic Wars, the Guards formed two brigades at the in 1815, with the 1st Brigade under Major-General George Cooke and the 2nd under Major-General holding critical positions; notably, elements of the and defended the farmhouse against repeated French assaults, preventing a flank breakthrough and contributing decisively to the Allied victory. The Grenadier Guards earned their distinctive name post-Waterloo for repelling Napoleon's , marking a high point in their combat legacy. The structure evolved to incorporate broader national representation in the early 20th century. The Irish Guards were formed on 1 April 1900 by to honor the valor of Irish soldiers in the Second Boer War, expanding the Brigade to four regiments and integrating Irish heritage into the household division. Similarly, amid the demands of , King George V ordered the creation of the on 26 February 1915, providing a Welsh national regiment that immediately deployed to the Western Front, participating in actions like the and earning early battle honors. These additions, placed fourth and fifth in precedence respectively, reflected the monarchy's effort to unify the United Kingdom's diverse elements within the Guards' storied tradition up to 1918.

Modern Organization

The modern organization of the United Kingdom's Foot Guards consists of five active regiments: the Grenadier Guards, , , , and . These regiments form the component of the , a prestigious grouping within the responsible for both operational and ceremonial commitments. Each maintains a single regular , designated as the 1st Battalion (for example, 1st Battalion ), structured as light role units capable of rapid deployment. This battalion organization totals approximately 2,500 trade-trained regular personnel across the five regiments as of early 2024, with individual battalions ranging from 390 to 540 personnel depending on operational demands and postings. Recruitment draws from across the , emphasizing elite selection through a competitive process that includes assessments, with no formal educational qualifications required and an age range of 16 to 35 years and 6 months. New recruits undergo a 30-week Combat Course at the Training Centre in Catterick, combining basic training and trade-specific skills, while officers receive rigorous commissioning training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Traditionally, there has been an emphasis on physical stature, with a historical minimum preference of 5 feet 10 inches for ceremonial uniformity, though current entry standards align with broader requirements without a strict height mandate. Significant administrative reforms occurred in 1992 under the "" defense review, which reduced the Foot Guards from eight battalions to five through disbandments and consolidations, aiming to streamline post-Cold War forces. This led to the regiments' amalgamation under the (now integrated into the Guards and Parachute Division), an administrative headquarters that coordinates training, rotations between field deployments and London-based duties, and overall readiness. Reserve support is provided by the London Guards, an Army Reserve battalion that reinforces the Grenadier, , Scots, and through dedicated companies, while the draw reserves from affiliated units within the broader structure. Logistical and sustainment needs are handled through standard mechanisms, including attachments from the Royal Logistic Corps and other enabling formations, ensuring operational self-sufficiency.

Duties and Traditions

The Foot Guards fulfill a prominent ceremonial role in the , most notably through the Changing of the Guard ceremony at , where detachments from the regiments rotate to symbolically protect the and royal residences. This daily or tri-weekly event, accompanied by military bands, involves the handover between the Old Guard and , maintaining a dating back centuries. Additionally, the regiments participate in , the annual King's Birthday Parade on , where one battalion's Colour is trooped before the in a display of drill precision and regimental pride. In major national events, the Foot Guards provide guards of honour and pallbearers, as seen in the 2022 state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, where soldiers from the Queen's Company of the 1st Battalion carried the coffin from to and later to . These duties extend to public engagement, including mounting sentries at , , and the , where guards interact with tourists while upholding strict discipline, as well as providing escorts for State Openings of and royal weddings. While ceremonial responsibilities are visible, the primary role of the Foot Guards remains as elite , with a history of combat deployments that underscores their operational prowess. Regiments have served in conflicts such as the 1982 , where units like the endured significant casualties during the liberation of the islands, and the 2003 , with the Grenadier Guards contributing to coalition operations in . In the 2000s, all five Foot Guards regiments deployed to under , conducting counter-insurgency patrols, mentoring local forces, and securing key areas in . Regimental traditions reinforce esprit de corps and historical identity among the Foot Guards. Each regiment maintains a unique , such as "Second to none" for the , reflecting their self-perceived seniority and resolve. Formal mess nights, held in officers' and sergeants' messes, serve as structured social gatherings with toasts, speeches, and rituals that honor battle honours and foster camaraderie, often featuring traditional attire and regimental silver. Regimental marches, played by dedicated bands, include slow marches like "Scipio" for the Grenadier Guards and quick marches such as "Milanollo" for the , performed during parades to evoke heritage. Competitions for the shiniest cap stars—polishing the ornate stars on their caps—highlight the emphasis on meticulous appearance and discipline. To balance ceremonial and operational demands, the Foot Guards operate a system where one from the five regiments is assigned to public duties in for approximately two years, while others undergo training or deploy abroad, ensuring every guardsman experiences both roles and sustains combat effectiveness. This , with rotations between , mechanised roles, and ceremonial postings, allows the regiments to remain versatile and ready for global contingencies.

Canada

Establishment and History

The Canadian Grenadier Guards, the oldest infantry regiment in the Canadian Militia, trace their origins to 17 November 1859, when they were authorized as the First Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles of in , . This formation responded to growing defense needs in the amid tensions with the following the . Similarly, the Governor General's Foot Guards were established on 7 June 1872 in , , as the 1st Battalion Governor General's Foot Guards, drawing from the existing Rifle Corps to provide a dedicated guard unit for the . Both regiments were modeled on the British Foot Guards, adopting their traditions of ceremonial excellence and elite roles while incorporating elements reflective of 's bilingual and bicultural identity, particularly through the -based Grenadier Guards' integration of French-speaking volunteers. In the early , both units contributed significantly to Canada's war efforts during the First World War. The perpetuated the 2nd Battalion (Eastern Ontario Regiment), CEF, which served in the on the Western Front, participating in major engagements such as the Somme and Vimy Ridge. The Canadian Grenadier Guards perpetuated the 87th Battalion, CEF, which fought in the on the Western Front, earning battle honors for actions in and . Following in 1919, the regiments returned to their militia status, shifting focus to ceremonial duties, including providing honor guards for vice-regal visits and state events in and , which reinforced their role as symbols of national tradition during the . During the Second World War, both regiments mobilized for active service in May 1940, adapting to armored roles to meet operational demands. The were redesignated as the 21st Canadian Armoured Regiment in 1942 and deployed to Northwest Europe in 1944 as part of the 4th Canadian Armoured Division, fighting in key battles such as the Falaise Gap and the , where they earned battle honors including "Falaise" and "The ." Likewise, the Canadian Grenadier Guards became the 22nd Canadian Armoured Regiment in 1943, serving in the same division and contributing to the liberation of , , and the , with battle honors such as "," "The Laison," and "The " reflecting their combat effectiveness. These actions solidified their reputation as elite fighting units while upholding guard traditions under fire. Postwar, the regiments demobilized in 1945 and resumed their reserve infantry roles, emphasizing training and ceremonial responsibilities within the Militia. In 1968, they were integrated into the unified Canadian Forces through the Canadian Forces Reorganization Act, which merged the Royal Canadian Navy, , and into a single service, maintaining their reserve status with provisions for occasional mobilizations in support of national defense needs. This unification further highlighted their bilingual elements, aligning with broader policies to reflect Canada's linguistic duality in military service.

Current Structure

The Canadian Foot Guards comprise two primary reserve infantry regiments: the (GGFG), based in , and the Canadian Grenadier Guards (CGG), based in . These units operate as formations within the Canadian Army, with the GGFG serving as the senior reserve infantry regiment and falling under the 4th Canadian Division's 33 Canadian Brigade Group, while the CGG is aligned with the 2nd Canadian Division's 34 Canadian Brigade Group. Each maintains a volunteer-based of approximately 400-500 personnel, organized into companies, support companies, training companies, regimental bands, and public duties elements, with no full-time active s. The GGFG includes No. 1 (), No. 2 (Training Company), No. 3 (Support Company), the Regimental Band, the Public Duties Company, and Regimental Headquarters, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel (as of 2025) and Stephane Marleau. Similarly, the CGG features a with four companies dedicated to training and public duties, under Lieutenant-Colonel J.R. Nunez (as of 2025) and Cameron Stevens. These part-time soldiers augment regular forces for operations while upholding ceremonial responsibilities. Training emphasizes light infantry skills and ceremonial drill, conducted through weekly evening sessions (typically Tuesdays from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.), monthly weekend exercises from to , and full-time summer employment opportunities from May to August. Annual collective training camps occur at Canadian Forces Base , where personnel participate in simulated combat operations, including air mobile insertions, urban maneuvers, and offensive tactics, to build readiness for domestic and international roles. , trade-specific, and leadership courses further develop capabilities in and support functions. Equipment aligns with standard issue for reserve infantry, including the C7A2 , C9 , and associated small arms, with a particular focus on drill weapons such as polished bayonets and rifles for precision ceremonial formations. Vehicles and heavier support gear are accessed through brigade resources during exercises, prioritizing mobility for operations over dedicated armored assets. In the and , reforms enhanced reserve capabilities to better support domestic operations, driven by a surge in deployments for natural disasters and security tasks, with Operation LENTUS activations roughly doubling every five years since 2010 to address floods, wildfires, and emergencies as of August 2025. These changes included improved integration and to enable faster augmentation of regular forces, reflecting the evolving demands on Canada's reserve post-unification in 1968.

Ceremonial Duties

The Canadian Foot Guards, comprising the (GGFG) and the (CGG), fulfill essential ceremonial roles that enhance national traditions and state occasions in the National Capital Region. These reserve regiments provide personnel for the Ceremonial Guard, an unit that executes public duties during the summer months, including mounting sentries and conducting formal parades to symbolize the continuity of and military heritage. Their contributions extend year-round, supporting the with honors and protocol events that underscore Canada's parliamentary . Prominent annual events feature the Changing of the Guard ceremony on , held daily from early July to late August (July 1 to August 20 in 2025), where scarlet-uniformed guards march from the Cartier Square Drill Hall to the East Lawn for a precision accompanied by musical flourishes. The GGFG's Public Duties Company leads the planning and execution of this summer program, while the CGG contributes an infantry company each year to share responsibilities. Additional key occasions include parades at the National War Memorial, where guards form processions and stand sentry to commemorate veterans, as seen in joint ceremonies honoring those who served. During royal visits, such as those by members of the Canadian , the guards perform escort duties and public honors, reinforcing ties to the . In state capacities, the Foot Guards mount sentries at , the residence of the , and participate in broader National Capital Region ceremonies, including inspections and state arrivals that maintain ceremonial protocol. These roles ensure the security and dignity of official sites while allowing public access to observe traditions like the annual Governor General's Inspection of the Guard. Musical components are integral, with each regiment maintaining dedicated pipe and drum bands that perform stirring selections during parades and inspections, adding a distinctive Scottish-influenced cadence to events like the Changing of the Guard. Public outreach efforts include youth programs such as the GGFG Regimental Association's annual Youth Awards, which recognize outstanding young Canadians with scholarships for leadership and perseverance, and affiliated Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps like 2784 GGFG RCACC, offering training in citizenship, fitness, and military skills. The CGG similarly supports cadet programs to foster community involvement and interest in the Canadian Armed Forces. These initiatives, along with international exchanges—such as joint training visits with British Foot Guards regiments—promote cross-cultural military ties and recruit from diverse communities. Modern ceremonies have adapted to reflect Canada's multicultural fabric, alongside contributions from diverse personnel to honor the nation's heritage inclusively.

Other Nations

Russian Empire

The foot guards of the began with the formation of the Preobrazhensky and Semenovsky regiments in by , initially as "toy" or play regiments that evolved into units serving as the personal guard of the tsar. These regiments, along with the Izmailovsky Regiment established in 1730 by Empress Anna Ivanovna from recruits in her former , formed the core of the Imperial Guard's , embodying to the and participating in key and ceremonial roles under successive tsars. As part of the broader Corps, the foot guards expanded to include 4 to 6 primary infantry regiments by the early , though the full Guard infantry reached 13 regiments by 1914, comprising over 10,000 men organized into divisions such as the 1st Guards Infantry Division. Selection for these units emphasized of birth and merit-based performance, with strict physical criteria including minimum height requirements (typically 172 cm or taller for infantrymen) to ensure an imposing presence; officers were drawn exclusively from top graduates of military academies, granting them accelerated promotions and social prestige. Guardsmen enjoyed exclusive privileges, including higher pay (up to double that of ), priority access to resources, and the right to wear distinctive uniforms, reinforcing their status as the tsar's most trusted force. The foot guards played pivotal roles in Russian history, suppressing the of 1825 when loyal units under Tsar Nicholas I dispersed rebel officers and soldiers on Senate Square in St. Petersburg, using artillery and infantry charges to crush the uprising and secure the throne. During the (1853–1856), elements of the Guard, including grenadier battalions, defended and engaged Allied forces at battles like , suffering heavy casualties but upholding their elite reputation amid logistical failures. In the (1904–1905), the 1st Guards Infantry Division, incorporating Preobrazhensky and Semenovsky elements, was deployed to , participating in major engagements such as Mukden where they faced devastating losses that exposed broader imperial vulnerabilities. saw the Guard committed to the front from 1914, with regiments like the Izmailovsky fighting in the and , enduring high attrition rates that diminished their cohesion by 1917. The foot guards' existence ended with the 1917 , as the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II led to the rapid disintegration of the Imperial Army; regiments were disbanded, with many guardsmen joining revolutionary committees, deserting, or being absorbed into the emerging formations amid widespread mutinies and the Bolshevik takeover.

Scandinavian Monarchies

In , the Livgardet (Life Guards) traces its origins to 1521, when 16 able-bodied men from were selected as personal bodyguards for during Sweden's War of Liberation against , marking one of the oldest continuously serving units in . Originally formed as an infantry formation known as the Svea Livgarde, it included foot elements from its and played a key role in major conflicts, including the (1618–1648), where it fought as elite under King in campaigns across , contributing to Swedish victories at battles like Breitenfeld in 1631. The regiment's infantry focus persisted through the 19th and early 20th centuries, with dedicated foot companies formalized amid reforms around 1900 to handle palace security and ceremonial duties alongside mounted elements. Today, Livgardet operates as a combined cavalry- regiment headquartered in , emphasizing rapid-response capabilities for national defense and international operations, including contributions to missions such as patrols and logistics support in under MINUSMA since 2018. In Denmark, the Den Kongelige Livgarde (Royal Life Guards), established in 1658 by King Frederik III following the coronation charter that centralized royal protection, serves as the monarch's primary guard unit and has evolved into a with strong ceremonial traditions. The unit's company, part of its structure since the , is renowned for its caps, a uniform element adopted during the when the saw active service in coalitions against , including deployments to the German states and participation in the 1813–1814 campaigns as supporting Danish alliances. During , following the 1940 German occupation, the 's personnel were demobilized but many individual members joined the broader , engaging in sabotage operations against Nazi infrastructure as part of groups like Holger Danske, which disrupted German supply lines until liberation in 1945. The maintains dedicated foot companies within its three-battalion structure for guard and ceremonial roles, distinct from its mechanized combat elements. Both units feature organizations with specialized foot companies numbering around 500–700 personnel overall, enabling them to balance operational mobility with static palace security. Ceremonial traditions remain central, including the Danish guards' daily mounting of the King's Watch at Palace in since the , featuring a noon changing-of-the-guard with bearskin-wearing grenadiers and musical , and the Swedish Life Guards' rotations at the Royal Palace of , where foot squads perform honor guards in historical blue uniforms evoking 17th-century styles. These practices incorporate folk elements, such as traditional marches and preserved drill manuals, underscoring their role in . In their modern status, the foot guards prioritize ceremonial duties while maintaining full ; Livgardet trains conscripts for NATO-enhanced rapid reaction forces following Sweden's accession, including joint exercises like Exercise Aurora, and contributes infantry detachments to UN missions for stability operations. Similarly, Den Kongelige Livgarde integrates into structures as Denmark's longstanding member since 1949, deploying foot and mechanized elements to missions in and , while upholding active-duty standards with an eight-month conscript service focused on both guard rotations and tactical training.

Continental Europe

In continental Europe, foot guards emerged as elite infantry units during the 19th century, heavily influenced by Napoleonic reforms that emphasized disciplined, professional standing armies after the defeats of traditional monarchies. These units, often drawn from Prussian, Belgian, and Dutch traditions, prioritized rigorous training for both combat and ceremonial duties, with selection criteria favoring taller recruits to project imperial power on parade grounds. Belgium's 1st Regiment of Grenadiers traces its origins to the country's independence in 1830, when elite companies from line regiments were consolidated into a dedicated grenadier formation by royal decree on May 8, 1837, initially as the Régiment de Grenadiers et Voltigeurs réunis. Renamed the 1st Grenadier Regiment in 1913 following army reorganization, it became renowned for its bearskin headdress, symbolizing its status as the premier infantry unit. During World War I, the regiment saw active combat on the Western Front, supporting Allied efforts with defensive actions and ceremonial morale-boosting performances by its band in France and England. In World War II, it was disbanded after the German invasion in May 1940 but reformed in Brussels on September 4, 1944, contributing to liberation parades and postwar reconstruction; it was dissolved in 1947, re-established in 1986 at Brasschaat linked to the Field Artillery School, and fully disbanded in 1989 amid military reforms. Today, elements of its traditions persist within the Belgian Land Component, which fulfills NATO commitments, including rapid reaction forces and multinational battlegroups in Eastern Europe. The Netherlands' Grenadiers and Rifles Regiment was formed in 1826 (formalized in 1829) to replace Swiss units withdrawn from service, merging and rifle companies into a guard formation tasked with royal protection. It performs ceremonial duties at in , mounting guards and participating in state events with precise drill renowned for its parade ground excellence. The regiment also saw colonial service in , deploying during the Dutch East Indies campaigns, including the 1947-1949 "police actions" against Indonesian independence forces, where Dutch troops, including guard elements, engaged in operations until sovereignty transfer in 1949. Imperial Germany's Kaiserliche Garde, established upon unification in 1871, drew from longstanding Prussian traditions, with the Foot Guard No. 1 (1. Garde-Regiment zu Fuß) formed in 1806 from remnants of defeated forces after Napoleon's victory at Jena-Auerstedt, embodying elite status through strict height requirements (minimum 175 cm for guards) and exceptional standards. This played a pivotal role in the (1870-1871), participating in key battles like Sedan that led to the fall of the Second French Empire and the . The Garde units were dissolved in 1918 following Germany's defeat in and the of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Common traits among these continental foot guards included Napoleonic-inspired reforms focusing on , with tall stature (often over 180 cm preferred) to enhance visual impact during parades, and a in combat and ceremonial duties emphasizing flawless maneuverability. Post-World War I, and the retained their guard regiments primarily as ceremonial units within modern armies, preserving traditions like bearskins and palace sentries, while Germany's , formed in 1955, operates without elements, prioritizing integration over monarchical symbolism.

Imperial Japan

The Imperial Guard Infantry, known as the Konoe Shidan, was established in 1888 during the reorganization of the into divisions, drawing inspiration from European guard units to serve as an elite formation directly under the Emperor's command. Initially formed from earlier palace guard elements dating back to 1871, it began as a single division tasked with both ceremonial protection of the Imperial Family and combat readiness, reflecting Japan's Meiji-era modernization efforts to build a professional national army. By the 1930s, amid escalating military expansion, the Guard had grown to encompass three brigades, incorporating additional infantry, artillery, and support units to enhance its operational capabilities. As an elite force, the was recruited primarily from volunteers and descendants of families, emphasizing , loyalty, and tradition; candidates underwent rigorous selection, with a minimum height requirement and national recruitment to ensure high standards. At its peak in the late and early , the unit numbered around 20,000 personnel across its brigades, organized into regiments equipped for both palace security and field deployment. This structure positioned the Guard as a symbol of imperial prestige, distinct from divisions, while maintaining operational for rapid mobilization. The Guard saw active service in key conflicts, including the of 1904–1905, where its infantry brigades played a pivotal role in assaults during the , helping secure victories that expanded Japanese influence in Asia. Elements also participated in the from 1918 to 1922, supporting Allied efforts against Bolshevik forces in the amid Japan's territorial ambitions. During the , while frontline brigades fought in campaigns such as the , reserve units focused on defensive duties around the Imperial Palace in , safeguarding the until the war's end. Uniforms for the Imperial Guard adapted Western European styles, featuring dark blue tunics and trousers with red piping for distinction, accented by the rising sun insignia on collars and headgear; ceremonial dress included shakos rather than bearskins, evolving from French-influenced designs in the Meiji period to more standardized field uniforms by the 1930s. Following Japan's surrender in 1945, the Guard was dissolved as part of the postwar demilitarization, with surviving personnel and equipment integrated into the emerging , though the unit lost its formal guard designation and ceremonial military role.

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