"D" Company - Buffalo City Guard, was organized in December 1837, at the time of the Caroline incident. The Caroline, a vessel in the Buffalo harbor, was set a fire and sunk with the loss of one life. A leading citizen of the time, James MacKay, issued a call to arms and within 24 hours a unit consisting of 5 companies of 20 men each was formed and their services offered to the City of Buffalo.

On December 30, 1837, Mayor Barker issued a proclamation accepting the unit. Thus was born Buffalo City Guard.

With the cessation of hostilities and the passing of time, the ranks dwindled until only "D" Company remained as an active military force. When the state militia laws were changed in the 1870's, "D" Company, rather than be incorporated in the state guard, became a military society.

In the 1890's the Buffalo St. Andrews Society Pipes & Drums consisting of several immigrants from Scotland who had served with the 92nd Regiment of Foot, The Gordon Highlanders~ of the British Army combined with "D" Company to form "D" Company - Buffalo City Guard - Gordon Highlanders.

"D" Company - Buffalo City Guard - Gordon Highlanders has been well represented in all major U.S. conflicts since 1837. Many members of the unit participated in the Mexican Campaign, World Wars I & II, Korea and the Vietnam conflicts. Even today, during peacetime, a number of members are on active duty with several branches of the United States Military.

Today's Company, though ready to serve God and Country, are not a combat organization but rather a parade organization. An organization however, steeped in tradition, with a very proud heritage passed down from those that served before us and in their honor, in parade after parade, "D" Company - Buffalo City Guard - Gordon Highlanders command the greatest respect and repeatedly gain the honor of being judged and awarded "First Place" in competition, adding still more glory to the illustrious history of "D" Company - Buffalo City Guard - Gordon Highlanders.

Former Commanding Officer
Retired Major Bruce A. Henderson