NORFORCE Association - 25th Birthday NORFORCE

NORFORCE has a number of events to celebrate the 25th Birthday of the Regiment. The most significant event for the Regiment is the Presentation of Colours to the Unit by the Administrator of the Northern Territory Mr. Ted Egan.

You are cordially invited to the presentation of Colours to NORFORCE

The Cenotaph
Mitchell Street
Darwin 26 June 2006
0930hrs.

The colours are consecrated symbols embodying the loyalty spirit and traditions of the unit to which they belong. They are highly valued, carefully guarded and treat it with the greatest respect.

The custom of carrying Colours has its origin in the ancient times as a method of distinguishing between the various tribes and families. Warring factions carried flags portraying family badges or armorial bearings to show the position of commanders and to serve as a rallying point during battle.

Naturally enough, the insignia of it consistently successful tribe acquired an aura of veneration.

Since 1751 Infantry Regiments have been allowed two Colours only – the Queen’s Colour and the regimental Colour. The Queens Colour is in the basic design and Colours of the Australian National Flag.

It is carried as a symbol of the Regiment’s devotion to the Sovereign. The Regimental Colour is dark green and bears the Battle Honour of the Regiment surrounding the Regimental Badge. It is symbolic of the history, tradition and spirit of the Regiment.

In earlier days, the Colours were trouped through the ranks of the Regiment, prior to engagement so that they could be recognised by all ranks as a rallying point during the course of the battle.

Owing to the changing nature of warfare, the practice of carrying Colours into battle has discontinued. The last occasion was at Laings Nel, South Africa on the 26th of January 1881, by the 58th Foot, a British Regiment.

However, the Trooping of the Colours through the ranks of the Regiment is continued as a Ceremonial Movement so that all members of the Regiment might pay the homage to the Queen and to the traditions of the Regiment.

Before the new Colours are presented, they will be consecrated at a religious ceremony on the parade.

This custom dates back to 1138 when the Yeoman of Yorkshire fought personally under the Archbishop of York against Scottish clansmen.