THE REGIMENTAL CHARTER
The Army Board has directed battalions to group into larger regiments to meet the operational and organisational demands of the future. In light of this, Her Majesty The Queen has graciously approved the formation of a new regiment. The Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry, The Light Infantry, The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry and The Royal Green Jackets recognise the profound impact of the Army Board's decision. They elect to join together to form a wholly new regiment called The Rifles; comprising seven battalions, five Regular and two Territorial, as well as other Territorial, Cadet and Association elements. They do this after thorough and careful consideration, of their own free will, to ensure the continued excellence of their service to The Crown. The four Founding Regiments will combine to form The Rifles from The Light Division.
The Rifles will take their inspiration from the Founding Regiments' Light Division ancestry, including their Line Regiment History. The Rifles will hold to the qualities advanced by General Sir John Moore and displayed by the finest of infantry regiments. They will demonstrate the values of independent thought and action, leadership, self-discipline, fortitude and steadfastness. The Rifles will strive for excellence and be known for their fighting spirit and strong sense of decency. They will be forward looking, at the forefront of military thought and determined to set the highest professional standards. The Regiment will give a place to all and anyone prepared to soldier loyally and effectively.
The Rifles will cherish and foster their links to the counties, cities and towns from which they come; and which underpin their strong sense of national identity. This new Regiment will be organised, operated and commanded so as to bring unity, professionalism and a sense of pride to all those who step forward with The Rifles.
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Lieutenant General
Sir Cedric Delves
KBE DSO
Col DDLI |
Lieutenant General
RV Brims CBE
DSO
Col Comdt Lt Div & Col LI |
General Sir Kevin
O'Donoghue KCB
CBE
Col RGBW LI |
Major General NJ
Cottam OBE
Regt Col Comdt RGJ |
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25th November 2005 |
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