Today, Army personnel in Scotland continued a proud military tradition through the firing of a 21 Royal Gun Salute, to honour the anniversary of His Majesty The King’s accession to the throne.
The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland played a medley at the Salute today at Edinburgh Castle.
47th Regiment Marching to their post.
A 105mm Light gun fires during the salute.
47th Regiment and the VIP’s assemble for a photograph.
The sound of artillery echoed across Edinburgh at noon and at authorised locations across the United Kingdom, continuing a tradition that began in 1603.
Personnel from the 47th Regiment, Royal Artillery, accompanied musically by Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and a Solo Piper from The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards all performed duties that have remained largely unchanged since the 17th century.
"It is an honour to be the Reviewing Officer at this Royal Gun Salute, marking His Majesty The King's Accession to the throne. The King, and Her Majesty The Queen, who is Patron of the Army Benevolent Fund, demonstrate the most evident care and attention for the Army and its people. In that context, it is a privilege to be representing the Army Benevolent Fund as today's Reviewing Officer. As the Army's national charity, we provide a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans, and their families when they fall into need, such they can live with independence and dignity."
In advance of the ceremony members of 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland took up Castle guard.
The Reviewing Officer, Major General (Retired) Tim Hyams CB OBE was accompanied by the Governor of Edinburgh Castle, Major General Bob Bruce CBE DSO.
Major General (Retired) Tim Hyams said:
Gunner Shona Watson chats with the Reviewing Officer, Major General (Retired) Tim Hyams CB OBE.
"It is an honour to be the Reviewing Officer at this Royal Gun Salute, marking His Majesty The King's Accession to the throne. The King, and Her Majesty The Queen, who is Patron of the Army Benevolent Fund, demonstrate the most evident care and attention for the Army and its people.
"In that context, it is a privilege to be representing the Army Benevolent Fund as today's Reviewing Officer. As the Army's national charity, we provide a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans, and their families when they fall into need, such they can live with independence and dignity."
A Royal Gun salute is usually made up of 21 rounds, although the number can vary depending on occasion and location. Today’s salute at Edinburgh Castle brought together soldiers to perform precise ceremonial duties that take a great deal of practice and teamwork, keeping Scotland’s rich military traditions alive for future generations.
Ceremonial occasions like today’s are part of the Nation’s traditions and a reminder of the long and unbroken history of the British Monarchy. Accession Day provides the opportunity to show support for the Monarch and wish them a long and prosperous reign.
For more information about a career in the Army, visit the Army Jobs website.
Irish Guards celebrate St Patrick’s Day with The Princess of Wales and Ukrainian recruits
