Bearskins, Bayonets and Body Armour is the title of a new book from Pen and Sword about the Welsh Guards in their 100th year anniversary

During the First World War, their ranks never broke. Other regiments slept more easily knowing the Guards were in the line. At the start of the Second World War, the Welsh Guards returned from Dunkirk with their boots clean and their weapons all present and correct. After the Sir Galahad was bombed during the Falklands Campaign, a calm and orderly line of Guardsmen waited patiently to disembark the burning ship.

This is a story of discipline, of courage and of sacrifice. This is the story of the Welsh Guards, one of the British Army’s most renowned and respected regiments. Written by Trevor Royle, the celebrated military author and broadcaster, it traces the Regiment’s history from its foundation and bloody baptism at the Battle of Loos in 1915 to its most recent deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2012.

Bearskins, Bayonets & Body Armour provides a unique insight into the standards of excellence that distinguish the Foot Guards regiments. It is also a remarkably complete account of the British Army over the past century. Containing more than 300 photographs, many of which have never been published before, this is a stunning official record of the Welsh Guards in war and peace. It is a book that adeptly contrasts the colour and pageantry of ceremonial duties with immense bravery and resilience in combat, making it essential reading for anyone with regimental connections or an interest in military history.

Our very own Monty helped with the book, selecting over 500 images from regimental archives.

Click the image to get a copy, at £15 its a bargain and all profits go to the Welsh Guards charity.