In April 2024, Queen Camilla conducted her first engagement as the new Colonel-in-Chief of The Royal Lancers, as part of her outfit, Camilla debuted a new brooch in her collection to reflect her position – the Royal Lancers Brooch.
The Brooch, previously owned by her late mother-in-law, Elizabeth II, who was also Colonel in Chief of the regiment until her death in 2022.
Elizabeth II was long affiliated with the Royal Lancers and was appointed Colonel-in-Chief of the unit’s precursor, the 16th/5th Lancers, on her 21st birthday in 1947.
The sparking Royal Lancers Brooch is crafted in the iconic shape of a skull and crossbones, overlaid with a banner reading the regiment’s motto: ‘Death or Glory’.
The brooch is intricately encrusted with diamonds, creating a sparkling, evocative design that balances elegance with the regimental history of daring and valour.
This unique motif harks back to the origins of the 17th Lancers, a regiment formed in 1759 during the Seven Years’ War. The regiment adopted the motto “Death or Glory” as a battle cry symbolising unyielding bravery and a willingness to sacrifice everything in service to the Crown.
Over time, this distinctive emblem became synonymous with the elite cavalry unit, celebrated for its prowess and gallantry.
The badge of the Royal Lancers. (Wikipedia)
The brooch has historically been worn sparingly, reserved for occasions connected to the Royal Lancers or military-related events. Elizabeth II was known to wear the brooch during ceremonies honouring the regiment, emphasising its deep personal and symbolic significance.
Queen Camilla’s choice to wear the brooch during her first engagement as Colonel-in-Chief signals her commitment to continuing her predecessor’s legacy.
