Soldiers representing the full breadth of today's British Army joined the Chief of the General Staff for a traditional carol service at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea, marking the culmination of another eventful year.
The Scots Guards act as ushers for the carol service at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.
A Chelsea Pensioner and a member of staff chat before the carol service.
The carol service at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.
The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces, and The Reverend Steven Brookes, Chaplain of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, took the service.
In 2025 we commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of wars in Europe and Japan but the Army is as committed as ever. This Christmas thousands of troops are overseas covering 21 operations in 27 countries. Many thousands more are held at readiness over the festive season should they be needed to defend the nation or assist in humanitarian missions.
The annual service of lessons and carols, hosted by The Army Benevolent Fund in the 1691 Wren Chapel, brought together service personnel from units including The Army Air Corps, the Grenadier Guards, The Royal Corps of Army Music, and The Adjutant General’s Corps (AGC).
The chapel was lit only by candles for the opening carol, creating an atmospheric setting that honoured centuries of military tradition.
A year of global service
Throughout 2025, British Army personnel have trained allied forces, supported NATO and UN missions, and responded to natural disasters worldwide. The service provided an opportunity to reflect on the Army's commitment to preventing conflicts and promoting international security.
From conservation work protecting precious ecosystems to deploying specialist skills during humanitarian crises, and training for future warfighting success, soldiers have demonstrated versatility and dedication. Their persistent engagement has strengthened partnerships with allied nations and contributed to global stability.
The work has required soldiers to remain ever vigilant, always ready and steadfast in their commitment to defending the United Kingdom whilst building stronger relationships with international partners.
Diverse representation
Soldiers taking part represented the diverse range of ranks and roles within the modern Army, demonstrating the breadth of capability across Army units: from the Head of the Army, General Sir Roly Walker to The Army Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One John Miller, and Guardsman Ella-Louise Asbrey who was one of the first women to join the Grenadier Guards in October 2020.
The readers came from across the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth, reflecting the reach of military service and the variety of backgrounds that make up the modern British Army.
Warrant Officer Class Two Natasha Campbell AGC was born in Kingston, Jamaica. Staff Sergeant Ashlee Richardson AGC has served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Estonia. They were joined by Major Charlotte Wilson, who commissioned into the Royal Artillery in 2013, and two notable Riflemen: Lieutenant Colonel Matt Forde, who is currently the Deputy Chief of Staff in Headquarters London District, and Brigadier Sam Cates, Deputy Commander London District.
Historic setting and tradition
Guests arriving at the Royal Hospital were greeted by stirring music by Piper Ryan Smart, a piper from the Scots Guards, and stair lining parties of Gunners of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and Troopers from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.
A Fanfare Team from the Band of the Scots Guards performed in the chapel, with the Royal Hospital Chelsea choir providing the musical accompaniment.
The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces, and The Reverend Steven Brookes, Chaplain of the Royal Hospital Chelsea took the service.
The Royal Hospital Chelsea was founded in 1682 by King Charles II as a retreat for veterans of the British Army. The Chapel, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, serves as the British Army's parish church. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance provided a fitting backdrop for the seasonal celebration.
Following the service, guests joined Chelsea Pensioners in their distinctive scarlet coats for traditional mince pies in the Great Hall. The gathering allowed serving personnel to connect with veterans and supporters of the military community.
Supporting the Army family
The service raised awareness for The Army Benevolent Fund, the Army's national charity founded in 1944. The charity helps thousands of soldiers, former soldiers and their families each year, providing support during times of need.
The organisation offers both financial assistance and practical help to members of the Army family facing challenges. Its work ensures that those who serve, and have served, receive support throughout their lives.
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