Nicknames
Their nickname as Pontius Pilate's bodyguard, originated from a 17th century boasting contest with the French Regiment of Picardy, who boasted that prior to the Resurrection Christ's tomb was guarded by the French regiment. Both claims are, of course, baseless.
The Royal Scots were also known as "First of foot, right of the line and the pride of the British army". The 9th (Territorial) Battalion (later after amalgamation with the 7th Battalion, known as the 7th/9th Battalion) was known as "The Dandy Ninth", being the only kilted battalion of this lowland regiment which was originally formed from highlanders who emigrated to the Edinburgh area.
The 9th were originally one of the Queen's Edinburgh Rifles volunteer battalions. The 2nd Battalion was sardonically referred to as "The First to Foot It" during the Battle of Hong Kong.
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