Buckingham Palace

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The Queen's Guard Share Their Stories

Airtrooper Armstrong AAC

I joined the Army in March 2007 and, after passing out from Basic Training at Winchester, went on to Phase Two training at Middle Wallop to become a Ground Crewman.

Whilst I was in the final stages of my training I was asked to be part of the 2009 Public Duties Squadron which I happily accepted. Being part of the Queen's Guard has been a great honour for me, and it gave me a chance to work alongside other Army Air Corps Regiments. I also gained an insight into what the Guards do every day.

For me the proudest moment has been stepping onto the forecourt at Buckingham Palace then left forming to face the Irish Guards. It was a once in a life time opportunity and was well worth the drill training beforehand. If anyone gets the opportunity to take part in Public Duties I would say go for it, the honour alone is worth the hard work.

Airtrooper Martin AAC

I have served in the Army for 2 years and am currently based at 9 Regiment AAC. I have been taking part in Public Duties ceremonies at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and The Tower of London.

When we first started Public Duties we were given one target to reach which was our first guard mount at Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace. It seems almost unreal but very exciting at the same time.

When I had achieved that target I had the biggest sense of pride I have ever felt in my life, knowing that I was one of the soldiers representing the Army Air Corps in front of thousands of tourists, and other members of the British Army, in an outstanding manner.

Airtrooper Shaw AAC

Taking part in Public Duties has been a privilege and an honour , to be honest. The four weeks of hard work paid off as soon as our Flight out did the guards themselves, which put our morale on a high, and it has remained that way ever since. The only bad point is the preparation -  for example bulling boots, but it is only a minor one as it is all worth it when you mount the Queens Guard.