Grenadier Guards
The Grenadier Guards are a modern and forward thinking infantry regiment. The variety and challenging nature of dismounted infantry soldiering has seen the regiment at the forefront of some of the most intense combat in recent years.
The regiment is currently deployed on operations in Afghanistan and has also seen service in Iraq.
1st Battalion Grenadier Guards
The 1st Battalion is based at Wellington Barracks in London. It consists of three Rifle companies, Support Company which consists of an anti-tank platoon, a mortar platoon, a recognisance platoon and a sniper platoon.
The final company is Headquarter Company, which holds everyone else in the battalion including any attachments such as clerks, chefs and mechanics.
Battalion life is varied and challenging with a wide range of careers and opportunities open to soldiers who join.
Nijmegen Company
Nijmegen Company is an independent company which was created when the 2nd Battalion was placed into suspended animation after defence cuts in 1993.
It represents the 2nd Battalion and carries its colours and continues its traditions to this day.
Nijmegen Company is also based in London, and is largely focused on public duties and state ceremonial events.
A soldier passing out of basic training will be posted to Nijmegen Company for six to nine months. In this time the Guardsman's training is built upon so he is well prepared to take up his life in the 1st Battalion.
Nijmegen Company also undertakes regular training exercises in England and overseas. Recentley, the Company deployed to Jamaica on a month-long jungle training exercise and also the Falkland Islands as the reinforcement company.
Recent adventurous training expeditions have included scuba diving in the Red Sea and skiing in Italy. The Company has also conducted Battlefield tours in Holland, Belgium and France.