Файл:Officer & Sergeant, Youth Citizens Volunteers, 1913.jpg

The YCV was formed in Ireland in 1912, and in Belfast in particular. It was originally to be an Ireland-wide organisation that provided older male youths with an organisation after they grew too old for the Scouts, Boys Brigade, etc.

Despite initially being apolitical, due to its preponderance of northern Irish members it became a Unionist organisation. With the coming of war many members volunteered to serve in the 36th (Ulster) Division, in their own battalion (the 14th Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles).

The organisation adopted a military uniform that followed several London Territorial Army units in being grey, with royal blue facings. The jacket of the officers was distinctive with its faced lapels and Austrian knot on the sleeves. The SNCO at right wears the unit's cloth belt around his waist and the Army's crimson rank sash over the right shoulder.

In the war the 14th Battalion wore khaki service dress.

A postwar attempt to revive the organisation failed.

Below is the tunic of a bandsman of the organisation, and a picture of the Band itself. Of note are the grey shamrocks embroidered on the bandsmen's lace.