The 1st Battalion, The Royal Yorkshire Regiment, has gathered as a whole battalion for its last event until Christmas.
The Royal Yorkshire Regiment parading their way to Drumbeat service at Richmond Castle before they head to deployment.
The Drumhead Service marked the last time the battalion will be together before Christmas
Troops marched the six miles to Richmond Castle from their base at Catterick Garrison, for a traditional military religious service.
The Drumhead Service marked the last time the battalion will be together before Christmas.
Arriving at the castle, the battalion formed up in their respective companies for the Drumhead Service in front of family and friends.
The 1 RYORKS Fijian Choir started proceedings, sharing their pride to be deploying alongside the soldiers, followed by the chain of command speeches,.
Lieutenant Colonel Ed Lyons, the battalion’s Commanding Officer, awarded commendations and promoted two soldiers from Private to Lance Corporal. Promotion before deployment means they will now have extra duties and be on the command ladder for the first time.
The service concluded with a blessing by regimental chaplain Padre Rob Desics as the battalion looks ahead to deployments on Operation Cabrit in Poland, and Operation Interflex, the UK-led mission to train Ukrainian soldiers.
Following a busy but rewarding 18 months, including operational tours in Estonia, Iraq, Kosovo, and exercises in Oman and Wessex Storm, the battalion is about to again deploy on operations, supporting NATO partners at a time of increased volatility and contributing to the training of Ukrainian soldiers.
The 1st Battalion have deployed to Iraq, Oman and Kosovo in the last two years alone.
Captain Toby Butters said: “The Drumhead Service marked the last time the battalion will be together before Christmas.
“Following a busy but rewarding 18 months, including operational tours in Estonia, Iraq, Kosovo, and exercises in Oman and Wessex Storm, the battalion is about to again deploy on operations, supporting NATO partners at a time of increased volatility and contributing to the training of Ukrainian soldiers.
“The Drumhead Service is a blessing from our Padre, sending our troops away on operations and away from their families.
“Our Fijian choir provided the music. It was a privilege to be joined by veterans, family and friends to mark the occasion.”
Our Fijian choir provided the music. It was a privilege to be joined by veterans, family and friends to mark the occasion.
