King's Colour 1802

The Union flag changed in 1800 to incorporate the red saltire of St Patrick following union with Ireland. This King's Colour was presented, along with the Regimental Colour, at a parade in Edinburgh on 1 Dec 1802. The northern commander, Lieut-General Vyse presented the Colours and addressed the men. The flag shown here is a reconstruction and has the Royal cypher inside the garter with crown above, and this time a Union wreath of thistles, roses and shamrocks. Below the figure of St Patrick is the new battle honour of the 42nd, the first to appear on their Colour. It is the Sphinx with laurel wreath, and the word EGYPT granted to the regiment for their great bravery at Aboukir Bay and Alexandria in 1801.

Regimental Details | Colours