Sabretache 1874 - 1885


The first pattern full dress sabretache for the reconstituted 20th had no battle honour as the award for PENINSULA wasn't allowed for them until 24 April 1874, according to W Y Carman's booklet Sabretaches of the Light Cavalry (MHS 1998). The sabretache can be seen in the 1866 group photo of officers, but not clear enough to see details. The honour had been won by the old 20th Light Dragoons but for some reason had not been inherited by the 20th Hussars until 1874. However, the painting of Lieutenant Fitzgeorge, dated 1870, clearly shows the battle honour on his sabretache, so perhaps the regiment adopted the honour unofficially before 1874 or else it was added to the painting at a later date.

The battle honour for VIMIERA was never awarded to the old 20th LD, and the 20th Hussars did not receive it until 1890. This honour was not emblazoned on the sabretaches but in 1885 SUAKIN was added. The backing cloth is crimson with gold embroidery and a blue velvet scroll for the battle honour. The train lace around the sides and lower edge is gold with a crimson central stripe.


Regimental Details | Sabretaches


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by Stephen Luscombe