Raised in 1900 by the late Queen Victoria to commemorate the bravery of the Irish Regiments in the South African War. All ranks have worthily upheld the high traditions of the Brigade of Guards in their first campaign, being distinguished for conspicuous bravery in many of the frequent actions against the overwhelming German forces in France and Belgium. Many decorations have been won, among them being the Victoria Cross awarded to Sergeant Michael O'Leary whose great bravery has been widely extolled among the Allies.

Nicknamed "Bob's Own," from the fact that the late Lord Roberts was the first Colonel of the regiment.