Today, 5 July, over 700 members of the Armed Forces led the ceremonial elements of the National Service of Thanksgiving on the occasion of the Presentation of the Honours of Scotland to Their Majesties The King and Queen, at St Giles’ Cathedral.
General Officer Scotland and Military Secretary, Major General Bill Wright CBE said:
“This is a wonderful day for Scotland and an absolute honour for the British Army in Scotland to play its part alongside the people of this nation.
“The pride the soldiers all feel today, particularly those from Scotland, is clear for all to see. We are inextricably linked to the people of Scotland, the communities from which we recruit and this country’s proud history. To pay our respects to our new Sovereign in the heart of Edinburgh is a memory we will never forget.”
Military personnel led a procession along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile that featured 100 members of the public representing all aspects of Scottish life. This was closely followed by personnel from across the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force who escorted the Crown, the sword and sceptre through the Scottish capital.
This part of the procession included four mounted elements of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, the Pipes & Drums of Robert Gordon’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF), 51 Brigade Cadet Military Band and the mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS), Corporal Cruachan IV, a Shetland pony. Also, on parade was Edinburgh Garrison Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Ruaridh Tuach SCOTS.
The Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry (SNIY) provided a Quarter Guard in Crown Square as the Honours began their journey to St Giles' Cathedral, receiving a fanfare from Royal Marine Band (Scotland) as they reached the Drawbridge.
The Tri-Service Guard of Honour escorting the Honours was accompanied by The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and included Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (BKA Coy, 5 SCOTS).
Officer Commanding BKA Coy, Major Rob Weir said:
“From involvement in Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral to King Charles III’s Coronation, the Armed Forces have stood front and centre in Scottish history, delivering on the world stage. I am fiercely proud of this, and we are now privileged with the greatest honour of them all, to escort the Honours of Scotland down the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral.
“Had you told me at the age of 15 when at school in Glasgow, that I would one day lead the Tri-service Guard of Honour on this momentous day, I would not have believed you.”
Had you told me at the age of 15 when at school in Glasgow, that I would one day lead the Tri-service Guard of Honour on this momentous day, I would not have believed you."
The Pipes, Drums and Bugles of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS) led members of The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment from the Palace of Holyrood House to St Giles' - a spectacular element of the procession.
As the National Service of Thanksgiving ended 12th Regiment Royal Artillery fired a 21 Gun Salute at Edinburgh Castle with 2 SCOTS Pipes, Drums and Bugles played ‘King Charles III’ for The King on his exit of St Giles’ Cathedral.
2nd Lieutenant Connor Stuart explained how he felt:
“Very proud and humbled at being able to lead a troop to represent 12th Regiment Royal Artillery for extended celebrations for the Kings Coronation. Events like this are what make the British Army unique and it’s really exciting to be a part of the day.”
Sergeant Matthew Myers said:
“This Royal Gun Salute is a fantastic opportunity for members of the team to be part of the ceremonial side of the military they would not usually get to experience during regimental duties. It is also providing the chance to take part in the extended King's Coronation celebrations which undoubtedly will be a proud moment for all involved.”
The Royal Gun Salute is a great experience for everyone involved on the day across all ranks, and it will definitely be one to remember. It is a wonderful way to continue to celebrate the King’s Coronation and also being part of the British Army.
Bombardier Sophie Leigh-Pearson said:
“The Royal Gun Salute is a great experience for everyone involved on the day across all ranks, and it will definitely be one to remember. It is a wonderful way to continue to celebrate the King’s Coronation and also being part of the British Army.”