Walter Douglas Faulkner joined the Iris Guards from Sandhurst early in 1917 and went to France in September of that year, where he served with the 2nd Battalion for the rest of the War, being awarded the M.C. in 1918. After a distinguished military career, which included the adjutancy of his battalion and the appointment of Commandant at the Guards Depot, he was given command in 1938 of the 1st Battalion, Irish Guards, who were at that time serving in Palestine. It was then that his powers of leadership, which were always so apparent, were given full scope. He was a magnificent commanding officer during through troublous and difficult times. Always calm and with excellent judgment, he inspired complete confidence in all who worked with him, and the added reputation which the Irish Guards gained in Palestine was in no small measure due to the skill and leadership of their commanding officer.
Lt. Col. W.D. Faulkner, Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion 24th Guards Brigade, was killed on the 10th April 1940 age 42 when the transport ship (HMT Chobry) was bombed by a force of Heinkel bombers.
The tune was composed by Colour Sgt. R.J. Batt, who was Pipe Major of the 1st Battalion from 1939–40.