Why is the leek the cap badge of the Welsh Guards?

The leek is a national symbol of Wales with a long military tradition. Welsh soldiers are said to have worn leeks to identify each other in battle, and when the Welsh Guards were formed in 1915, the leek was chosen as their distinctive cap badge to reflect their strong Welsh identity.

Why is the leek the national emblem of Wales?

Legend has it that during a battle between the Welsh and the Saxons, St David advised the Welsh to wear leeks on their helmets to tell friend from foe. The Welsh won, and the leek became a lasting symbol of identity and unity. By Shakespeare’s time it was already a national emblem, and it remains proudly worn today — especially on St David’s Day.

When were the Welsh Guards formed?

The Welsh Guards were formed on 26 February 1915 during the First World War, making them the youngest of the Foot Guards regiments.

What does the Welsh Guards cap badge symbolise?

The leek badge represents Welsh heritage, loyalty to the Crown, and the regimental motto 'Cymru am byth' — 'Wales forever.' It embodies continuity, pride and service within the Guards Division.

When is the leek badge worn?

The leek badge is worn year-round across Welsh Guards uniform, on operations and at ceremonial duties such as Changing the Guard and state parades. On St David’s Day, leeks are also presented and worn in honour of the regiment’s Welsh heritage.

What is the significance of RFA Sir Galahad to the Welsh Guards?

During the Falklands Conflict in 1982, RFA Sir Galahad was attacked at Bluff Cove, causing devastating losses to the Welsh Guards. The courage shown that day is central to regimental remembrance. Among the survivors, Simon Weston CBE has since become a national figure of inspiration through his extensive charitable work for veterans and communities.

Can the Welsh Guards badge be included in presentation memorabilia?

Yes — the leek badge is a popular centrepiece for medal and service displays and Oath of Allegiance pieces. MOD-licensed, veteran-made presentation frames ensure the emblem is shown with accuracy and respect.

The Welsh Guards Cap Badge

Mike Smith
Oct 19
3 min read

Updated: Oct 21

🪖 The Welsh Guards Cap Badge — The Leek, Worn with Pride
Elegant, unmistakable, and deeply Welsh: the leek of the Welsh Guards is more than an emblem — it’s a promise of service and a link to centuries of tradition.
🏵 Why a Leek?
The leek is a national symbol of Wales, with legends dating back to medieval battles. According to tradition, Welsh soldiers wore leeks on their helmets to distinguish themselves from their Saxon enemies on the battlefield. The Welsh won the fight, and the leek became a symbol of unity and national pride.
When the Welsh Guards were formed in 1915, the leek was chosen as their distinctive cap badge — a powerful emblem of their identity as a Welsh regiment within the Guards Division.
📅 A Young Regiment with Deep Roots
The Welsh Guards were formed on 26 February 1915, during the First World War, becoming the youngest of the five Foot Guards regiments. From the outset, they carried their Welsh heritage proudly, combining Household Division tradition with a distinct national identity.
The leek cap badge was a deliberate and meaningful choice — a simple, instantly recognisable symbol of their connection to Wales and its people.
🪖 Meaning and Symbolism
The leek badge represents:
- 🐉 Welsh heritage and national identity
- 👑 Loyalty to the Crown
- 🕰 A living tradition, still celebrated each year on St David’s Day
The regiment’s motto, “Cymru am byth” — “Wales forever” — perfectly complements the symbolism of the leek: steadfastness, pride, and continuity.
🧵 How It’s Worn
The leek is used across the regiment’s uniform — from berets and service dress to full ceremonial attire. It’s seen on parade at Buckingham Palace, at state occasions, and on operations around the world.
Every Guardsman and Guardswoman wears it with quiet pride, knowing what it stands for — past and present.
🕊 Service and Sacrifice — The Sir Galahad
The proud history of the Welsh Guards also carries moments of profound loss and courage. One of the most defining and tragic events came during the Falklands Conflict of 1982, when RFA Sir Galahad was attacked and set ablaze at Bluff Cove. On that day, the Welsh Guards suffered devastating casualties, and the courage shown by all on board became a lasting testament to their spirit.
Among the survivors was Simon Weston CBE, whose injuries were life-changing but who went on to become a national figure of inspiration. His tireless work for veterans, charities and community causes has touched countless lives and continues to reflect the quiet strength and resilience of the Welsh Guards.
The legacy of those lost — and the extraordinary perseverance of the survivors — remains a central part of regimental remembrance and identity.
🖼 Preserving the Badge in Memorabilia
For serving personnel, veterans, and families, the leek cap badge makes a powerful centrepiece in presentation frames, medal displays, and Oath of Allegiance pieces. At Oaths of Allegiance, our MOD-licensed, veteran-made displays use authentic regimental details so the story behind that badge is honoured properly.
🏁 In Summary
- The Welsh Guards cap badge is the leek, a national emblem of Wales with centuries of history.
- It represents heritage, loyalty, and proud service.
- The regiment’s story is woven with both ceremonial splendour and the courage of real people, past and present.
- It’s a badge carried with dignity — in peace, in war, and in memory.