The Royal Air Force’s King’s Colour Squadron has taken on the responsibility as the King’s Guard at the London Palaces 80 years after first conducting the duty.
The ceremony to assume the prestigious duty, known as the Changing of the Guard, took place on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace and saw the King’s Colour Squadron assume responsibility for the security of His Majesty’s London residences – Buckingham Palace and St James’ Palace. The day was made richer for the many spectators with music from the Central Band of the Royal Air Force.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the RAF Regiment’s first King’s Guard when in 1943 the Changing of the Guard, also referred to as the Mounting of the Guard or Guard Mounting, was conducted in front of King George VI.
Air Specialist (Class 1) Ward is a gunner with the RAF Regiment and this was his first involvement in public duties. He said:
Representing the RAF Regiment and the King’s Colour Squadron on my first mount of the King’s Guard, working alongside the Irish Guards, was a very special occasion. Under the eye of the public I wanted to show my best in drill and ceremonial, and marching from Buckingham Palace to Friary Court was a moment I will never forget. I felt particularly proud after completing my first sentry.
This most recent Guard Mounting is the first time the new King’s Colour for the Royal Air Force has been paraded as part of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The Colour, a light blue ensign made of silk, was presented by His Majesty in April this year having originally being presented in 1951 by the then Princess Elizabeth.
Flying Officer Symonds acted as Ensign for the King’s Colour, carrying it throughout the parade and mounting ceremony. He said:
It was an honour, and I felt proud to represent the Royal Air Force Regiment and the King’s Colour Squadron in this anniversary year.
