Introduction

Lance corporal of horse (LCoH) is an appointment unique to the Household Cavalry of the British Army, equivalent to lance sergeant in the Foot Guards.

Background

It was introduced in 1971. On promotion to corporal, an NCO is automatically appointed lance-corporal of horse, so that the rank structure effectively goes straight from Lance Corporal to lance corporal of horse, and then to Corporal of Horse. However, lance corporals of horse are still addressed as “Corporal”.

A lance-corporal of horse wears three rank chevrons surmounted by a cloth crown (as opposed to the metal crowns worn by full corporals of horse). Similar to a Staff/Colour Sergeant which is two ranks higher.

The rank was introduced to fall in line with lance sergeants in the Foot Guards allowing them to use the sergeants’ mess.

“Annex A/2 THE HOUSEHOLD DIVISION”. THE QUEEN’S REGULATIONS FOR THE ARMY. Ministry of Defence. March 1996. p. 2A-4. By long established custom all full Corporals within the Household division are, from the time of their promotion to the rank of Corporal, appointed Lance Corporal of Horse or Lance Sergeant, and are dressed accordingly. As such, they are full members of the Warrant Officers’ and Non Commissioned Officers’ Mess or the Sergeants’ Mess, on the same basis as a full Corporal of Horse or full Sergeant.

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