Jimmy Shaw, age 16, of Billings, Mont., for his question:

WHAT IS THE BLACK WATCH?

The Black Watch is a famous Scottish infantry regiment. It is officially known as the Royal Highland Regiment. Raised by the British army in 1725, the first companies had the duty of controlling clan uprisings in the Scottish Highlands.

In 1739 a regiment was formed. Unlike British regulars, with their uniforms of scarlet breeches and coats, the Scots wore dark colored tartan kilts and so were called the Black Watch.

When absorbed by the regular army, the Black Watch troops were allowed to keep their traditional name and dress. The regiment was designated the 42nd or Highland Regiment in 1749. In 1758 it was renamed the Royal Highland Regiment and the use of the original Black Watch title was also authorized.

The regiment distinguished itself in many wars, such as the French and Indian War, the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars.