The Regiment
The Coldstream Guards, a British Infantry Regiment, holds the distinction of being the oldest regular regiment still active since 1650. They are easily recognised on parade by their red plumes on the right side of their bearskin hats, the Garter Star on their collars, and buttons arranged in pairs, symbolising their status as the Second Regiment of Foot Guards with the motto “Nulli Secundus” or “Second to None”.
While they are widely known for their prominent ceremonial duties, the Coldstream Guards serve primarily as an infantry unit and have earned a reputation as an elite fighting force over the centuries.
Role of the Regiment
Known for discipline and courage, the Coldstream Guards specialise in light-role operations, such as reconnaissance, using machine guns and mortars, and engaging enemies on foot or in light vehicles. They’re a crucial unit in the British Army.
Beyond combat, the Guards also protect royal palaces like Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, and their Regimental Band is one of the world’s oldest military marching bands..
Below is a list of key members of the association and their respective titles. Further below is a historical roll of former and present branch presidents. There is also a comprehensive roll of past and present branch chairmen.
PRESIDENT
Lt Col Sir Michael Vernon KCVO
VICE PRESIDENTS
Capt W E Forbes
Capt A Gane
Capt The Marquess of Donagal.
Major L Westerman
Major J Blair
WO Class 2 (Drum Major)
S Fitzgerald
Mr R Appleby MBE
Mr W Taylor
BRANCH OFFICIALS
SECRETARY
Mr E Armstrong
CHAIRMAN
Mr R Hardy
TREASURER
Mr K Stott
ENTERAINMENT COMMITTEE
Mr R Gray
Mr S Sutton
Mr K Thomas
Mr G Plumb
Mr K Stott
PAST & PRESENT
BRANCH PRESIDENTS
BRANCH CHAIRMEN
1913
1929
1957
1965
1975
1982
1995
2004
2022
Brig General Sir H.C. Surtees CB CMG DSO MVO MP
Lt. Colonel W. St Andrew Warde-Aldam DSO DL
Brig The Lord Stratheden and Campbell CBE
Major D.J. Warde-Aldam
Major J.C. Cowley DCM
Captain A.S. Gardner
Captain A.R. Pearson
Lt Colonel R.M. Festing OBE TD DL
Lt Colonel M. Vernon
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965 – 66
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973 – 86
1987 – 95
1996 – 05
2006 – 16
2017
2018
2019 – 24
2025
J Calder Esq
R Wood Esq
M Gaynor Esq
S Hetherington Esq
W Hogg Esq
R Patrick Esq
W Forster Esq
R H Miller Esq
R Lowther Esq
L Best Esq
G Carter
W Foster
J R Mark Esq
B Wilkinson Esq
G Waine Esq
W Taylor Esq
S Finnemore Esq
R Hardy
E Armstrong
R Hardy