Nicknames, Back Badge, US Presidential Citation
REGIMENTAL NICKNAMES
Many British regiments have, over the centuries, earned nicknames. The Glosters have been given the following :
"The Old Braggs" ....This was the favourite nickname in the Regiment itself and was in honour of Colonel Philip Bragg, who commanded the 28th Foot from 1734 to his death in 1759.
"The Slashers" ........Battle of White Plains (New York) in 1776. The Americans had taken up position on a steep hill beyond the Bronx River. Unable to carry their muskets up the hill the 28th drew .their short swords and charged, driving the Americans from the hill.
"The Silver-tailed Dandies" .. This nickname was given to the 61st Foot in the Peninsular Campaign, as their coats had longer tails with silver decoration.
"The Flowers of Toulouse" .... Battle of Toulouse 1814. "So impressed were those who saw the fighting of the 61st at Toulouse that the Regiment was honoured with a new nickname. From the great numbers of bodies left on the field, in their scarlet uniform, they were called "The Flowers of Toulouse" - a proud tribute to their gallantry." ...................( Cap of Honour by D.S. Daniell)
"The Glorious Glosters" ......See below. (U.S. Presidential Unit Citation)
The Glosters had the unique.distinction of wearing a badge on both the front and back of their head-dress. (see top of page).
This was awarded to the 28th Foot for their action in the Battle of Alexandria in Egypt, 21st March 1801. The British infantry fought in 2 lines (the "thin red line") and during this battle the French infantry were attacking the 28th in a frontal assault. Suddenly a force of 500 French cavalry appeared behind the British position and charged directly at the 28th. Lieutenant Colonel Chambers gave the historic order "Rear Rank 28th. Right About Face!" The rear rank turned around and the Regiment fought back to back, repulsing both attacks.
The Back Badge is still worn by the new Regiment.
Below is a front and rear view of a Blue cloth helmet, showing the back badge.
In 1950 the 1st Battalion went to Korea as part of the United Nations Forces defending South Korea. In April 1951 British 29th Infantry Brigade was holding the defensive line along the Imjin River. The main invasion route across the Imjin was held by the Gloucestershire Regiment (750 strong) and the men of C Troop Light (Mortar) Battery, R.A. The U.N. command needed time to reorganise and asked the Glosters to hold for as long as possible. Against them were three Chinese Divisions (approx. 27,000 men).
From April 22nd to 25th the Glosters held out, surrounded, radio batteries dead, low on water and ammunition the order was given to break out.....
The United States Presidential Unit Citation was awarded for the stand at the Imjin River
Index .......... Victoria Crosses...............Colours