Unpacking the Differences Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) vs. Australian Army Have you ever wondered why Australia’s primary infantry force ...
Unpacking the Differences Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) vs. Australian Army
Have you ever wondered why Australia’s primary infantry force carries the prestigious title of the Royal Australian Regiment, while the entire land force is known simply as the Australian Army? It's a common question, and the answer lies in a blend of historical tradition and the specific honour bestowed upon this vital part of Australia’s defence.
At first glance, the distinction might seem puzzling. Why isn’t the entire army called the “Royal Australian Army” when there is a Royal Australian Air Force and a Royal Australian Navy? To understand this, you'd need to know the fundamental difference between a regiment and an army, with a quick side of knowledge as to the historical roots of military naming conventions.
Regiment vs. Army? What's the Difference?
Think of the Australian Army as the comprehensive umbrella organisation that encompasses all land-based military capabilities. This includes a vast array of corps and branches, such as artillery, engineers, signals, aviation, medical services, and, of course, "gods corps" (sorry had to slip this one in as an -ex grunt) the infantry. The Army is responsible for a wide spectrum of operations, from combat roles to peacekeeping and disaster relief.
A regiment, on the other hand, is a specific type of military unit within the Army. In the case of the Royal Australian Regiment, it serves as the parent administrative body for all of the regular infantry battalions within the Australian Army. Infantry soldiers, the backbone of ground combat, are organised into these battalions, which collectively form the Royal Australian Regiment.
Royal Australian Regiment's Back Story
The story of the RAR begins in 1948, formed from existing infantry units after World War II. Initially known simply as the Australian Regiment, it wasn't long before a significant honour was bestowed upon it. On March 10, 1949, King George VI granted the title "Royal" to the regiment, recognising its service and dedication, leading to its current name: the Royal Australian Regiment.
The Inherited Tradition
The reason why a specific regiment receives the "Royal" prefix, rather than the entire army, can be traced back to Australia's roots in British military tradition. Historically, the British Army was comprised of numerous individual regiments, each with its own distinct identity and heritage. Honours, like the granting of a "Royal" title, were often conferred upon specific regiments or corps in recognition of their service.
Conversely, the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force were established as unified services under the direct authority of the Crown from their inception, hence their service-wide "Royal" designation. This tradition of honouring specific units within the land forces, rather than the entire army structure, was inherited by many Commonwealth nations, including Australia.
A Mark of Distinction
The "Royal" title is not automatically granted; it is a specific honour bestowed by the reigning monarch. In the case of the Royal Australian Regiment, the granting of this title by King George VI was a significant recognition of the vital role played by infantry in the defence of the nation. It signifies a direct link to the Crown and underscores the regiment's esteemed status within the Australian Army.
Other "Royal" Corps and Regiments in the Australian Army
The Royal Australian Regiment is not the only entity within the Australian Army to hold the "Royal" prefix. You'll also find other distinguished corps such as the Royal Australian Artillery, the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, and the Royal Australian Armoured Corps. Again following the tradition of granting the "Royal" title to specific branches and regiments in recognition of their dedicated service and historical contributions to the Australian Defence Force.
Ultimately, the distinction between the Royal Australian Regiment and the broader Australian Army is a window into the history and traditions that define our armed forces. While the Army as a whole continues to evolve to meet modern challenges, the prestigious title carried by the RAR serves as an enduring link to a past built on honour and sacrifice.
COMMENTS