The Order of the Garter

The Order of the Garter, founded in 1772 by King Cunglas, is the
highest order of chivalry in the Kingdom of Pyrus.  In 1784 King Celasin dedicated the Order to the image and arms of Saint Cornelius as Pyrus' patron saint.
King Cunglas founded the Order to be an elite force of Heavy Guard Cuirassiers, clad in gold plated cuirasses and helms to be a dazzling display on the battlefield.  However for practical reasons the Knights of the Garter are usually employed as official escorts for visiting dignitaries and the protection of the Royal Family.
It is awarded at the Sovereign’s pleasure as a personal gift on recipients from the Kingdom of Pyrus. Membership of the Order is limited to the Sovereign as Colonel in Chief and four hundred male members.  New Appointments to the Order of the Garter are now always made on St Cornelius’ Day, 15th September, as Saint Cornelius is the patron saint of Pyrus.
Before 1784, the Order’s arms were celestial blue, a cross vert fimbriated tenne, circumscribed by the Garter (celestial blue).  After 1784 the Order adopted the arms of Saint Cornelius: or, on a chevron gules three scallop shells argent, circumscribed by the Garter (vert).
It is believed that King Cunglas chose the garter as his emblem for the Order deriving it from the straps used to fasten armour in ancient times.
== Vestments and Accoutrements ==
For ceremonial occasions, the members wear elaborate armour and accoutrements, which include:
* The Cuirass is a two-piece set of armour worn by members, since the foundation of the order, made of iron and plated in gold.  The front and back plates are secured at each shoulder by a green garter.
* The helm is a capelin helmet worn by members, since the foundation of the order, made of iron and plated in gold.  The helm is made of a rounded skull piece to which is attached a peak (at the front), cheekpieces (at the sides) and a laminated defence (at the back), from the top is a plum of white feathers.
* The Garter is a buckled green (originally celestial blue) velvet strap worn by members, since 1784, around the left calf.
Members are expected to wear standard military uniform and a sword belt with sword.
== Precedence and Privileges ==
Knights Companion are entitled to prefix “Sir” to their forenames.  Wives of Knights Companion may prefix “Lady” to their surnames.  Such forms are not used by royalty, peers or clergymen, who instead use only the post-nominal letters; Knights Companion may use the post-nominal letters OG.
In their heraldic achievements, members of the Order of the Garter may encircle their escutcheon with the Garter and are entitled to receive non-hereditary heraldic supporters.
== Current Knights ==
See Also:- List of Knights of the Order of the Garter
Name 	Year Appointed
King Celasin, Colonel in Chief	1776
Category:Orders, Decorations and Awards of the Kingdom of Pyrus
Category:Orders of Chivalry