Traditions and Affiliations
St. Patrick's Day is the traditional regimental celebration. Fresh shamrock is presented to the members of the regiment, no matter where it is stationed.
Except in wartime, the presentation is traditionally made by a member of the Royal Family. This task was first performed in 1901 by HM Queen Alexandra and later by HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Since the latter's death, the presentation has been made by HRH The Princess Royal. On the regiment's 50th anniversary in 1950, King George VI made the presentation in person.
In 1989, Queen Elizabeth was unable to make the journey to Belize, where the battalion was stationed, and the Grand Duke of Luxembourg substituted for her.
In 2012, The Duchess of Cambridge made the presentation at Aldershot, as her first solo military engagement.
The regiment is also associated with HMS Portland, as well as the 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment.
Read more about this topic: Irish Guards
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