New Drum Major’s Sash for King’s-Edgehill School Cadets

At the Annual Cadet Review, Drum Major MWO Vinnie Armstrong ’25 would become the first of many drum majors to don the new Drum Major’s sash. The fine detail, vibrant colours, and gold wiring make this a beautiful piece to behold!

It was a five-month process to have the new sash made, which started in January when Captain Skafte presented the new sash design to Head of School Mr. Joe Seagram. With his approval, we proceeded. We commissioned L&M Highland Outfitters to craft the sash and in the upcoming months our dream became reality.

On the Drum Major’s sash, starting at the top, is the royal cypher of Queen Elizabeth II – the cypher of the longest-reigning monarch in Canada’s history. Next is the Black Watch Royal Highland Regiment of Canada’s emblem with the motto Nemo Me Impune Lacessit. Next is the King’s-Edgehill heraldic crests, which are beautifully done with our school’s mottos: Deo, Legi, Regi, Gregi and Fideliter. The King’s-Edgehill crests are raised and have rich, colourful details.

The corps name is below, and then gold laurels adorn the sash with A.D. 1788, the founding year of King’s College School. The laurel and founding year can also be found on the original sash. Lastly is the Latin motto Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, which is found on the stone at Hensley Memorial Chapel. Corps Chaplain Rev'd David Curry provided valuable input on a Latin motto for the sash. With drumsticks adorning each side, double gold braiding and wire tassels, this is a gorgeous piece of art.

In the photo of the Drum Major’s sash presentation at the ACR are, from left to right: CO Captain James Skafte, Music Director of the Royal International Tattoo Lieutenant-Colonel (retired) Jase Burcham, RSM CWO Ann MacQuarrie ’25, Head of School Mr. Joe Seagram, Drum Major MWO Vinnie Armstrong, Chaplain Rev'd David Curry, Black Watch (RHR) of Canada piper Captain (retired) Andy Kerr, and Mil Band Officer Mr. Kevin Simonar.