Sergeants & Musicians 1909

This group photo, taken at Rawalpindi in 1909 was reproduced in the regimental gazette that was instituted by CO Lt-Col Vaughan in 1907. It was ably edited by QM Roland Pillinger. The meaning of the title of ‘Dukies’ is not clear. Five of the men in the photo are sergeants or higher but the central figure is a private. He is Trumpeter Pollock who was the rider of the drumhorse. His instruments are in front of him, with the 1902 blue drum banners. He has a crossed trumpet badge on his right arm and a musketry proficiency badge on his left arm, above two good-conduct stripes. He is flanked on the left by Squadron Sergeant Major Cox whose rank is shown as a crown above a silver metal badge and three gold stripes. On the right is Squadron Quartermaster Sergeant Miller who also has a crown badge above his silver badge and stripes (not visible). Both these senior NCOs were classed as 2nd Class Staff until 1915 when they were given the status of Warrant Officer class 2. The men wearing white pouch-belts are all musicians; they were the only members of the regiment to have them as they were discontinued for cavalry other ranks in 1902.

Regimental Details | Drumhorses and Trumpeters