Army personnel played a central role for the arrival of His Majesty The King at Holyroodhouse and the Ceremony of the Keys on Monday 3 July 2023. The Ceremony of the Keys took place at the start of the British monarch's week-long residence in Scotland. Soon after arrival, in the forecourt of the Palace, His Majesty was symbolically offered the keys to the city of Edinburgh.
This year, the Large Guard of Honour was provided by The Kings’ Bodyguard in Scotland (Royal Company of Archers) supported by the Pipes, Drums and Bugles of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS) and The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.
At 4:30pm, to mark the arrival of The King, a Royal 21 Gun Salute was fired by 10 (Assaye) Battery, 47 Regiment Royal Artillery, which is normally based in Larkhill, Wiltshire.
Lieutenant Hattie Sumner, Troop Commander, said: “I feel very lucky to take part in such an occasion, especially coming from a Regiment that doesn’t work with guns on a daily basis.”
Major Adrian Vipond, Battery Commander, also stated: “It was an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to support such an occasion.”
It was an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to support such an occasion.
Invited to take the Salute was Colonel Alex McNamee, Colonel Cadets Army Cadet Force, 51 Infantry Brigade (51 Inf Bde) and Headquarters Scotland who said: “It was with great pride that I was invited to be the salute taker for this prestigious event and is an honour for me as Colonel Cadets 51 Inf Bde and also the fact that the invited guests are Senior Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVS) from Scottish Cadet Battalions is a great endorsement from the Army of it’s Cadet Force. I am sure these young people will remember this day for years to come.”
Musical support was provided by the Royal Marine Band Scotland and solo piper, Pipe Major Walker, from the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry.
Members of The Royal Regiment of Scotland provided Guard at Holyroodhouse Palace and Edinburgh Castle and will continue to do so whilst The King is in residence in Edinburgh.