The white lanyard worn by members of the British Royal Artillery is a distinctive and traditional part of their uniform, serving both a historical functional purpose and acting as a clear identifier of their regiment.
Historical Purpose of the Lanyard
Originally, the lanyard was not merely a decorative item but a crucial piece of equipment for artillery personnel, particularly those handling explosive ordnance:
- Fuze Key Holder: The primary historical purpose of the lanyard was to hold a key. This key was essential for adjusting the fuzes of explosive shells. Gunners would use it to precisely set the timing mechanism of a shell's fuze before it was loaded into the artillery piece. This allowed for accurate detonation at a specific time or altitude, critical for effective bombardment.
Significance of the White Color
While the functional aspect explains why a lanyard was worn, the choice of white specifically for the Royal Artillery is steeped in tradition and visual distinction:
- Distinctive Identification: The white lanyard serves as a highly visible and unique identifier for members of the Royal Artillery. It visually distinguishes them from soldiers in other regiments or corps within the British Army. This characteristic makes them easily recognizable, whether on parade, in formal dress, or in some operational contexts.
- Regimental Heritage and Pride: Over centuries, the white lanyard has evolved beyond a simple functional item to become a powerful symbol of the Royal Artillery's long and illustrious history. It represents their unique role, traditions, and the esprit de corps among 'Gunners'. The white color, though its original specific rationale is deeply embedded in the evolution of uniform traditions rather than a single documented functional reason, remains a cherished part of their regimental identity.
Thus, the white lanyard embodies the practical origins of artillery work combined with the proud heritage and unique identity of the British Royal Artillery.
