The RAF Regiment proudly celebrates its close affiliation with His Majesty King Charles III. As both the Head of the Armed Forces and the Corps’ Air Commodore-in-Chief, His Majesty holds a place of deep respect and significance within the Regiment.
The oath of allegiance to The Sovereign, sworn by all personnel joining the RAF Regiment, is reciprocated by the patronage extended from His Majesty. This fosters a profound sense of pride and connection to The King, felt throughout the Corps.
To mark this enduring bond, the RAF Regiment Training Wing and the King’s Colour Squadron (KCS) are honoured to accept official portraits of His Majesty the King in the uniform of Marshal of the Royal Air Force. Personally signed by The King, these portraits will be displayed with distinction alongside the King’s Colour for the Royal Air Force and the King’s Colour for the RAF Regiment—serving as a lasting symbol of duty, inspiration, and unity. In a ceremonial presentation, the Regiment’s most senior member, Air Vice-Marshal Smeath, presented the portrait to one of its most junior members—Aircraftman Second Class (AS2) Thomas, who accepted it on behalf of the RAF Regiment Training Wing.
AS2 Thomas, 17, originally from Blackpool, joined the RAF in June 2024 following a strong family tradition of military service; his father currently serves with 34 Squadron. A member of Salalah Flight on TG Course 5-24, he was named Champion Shot, receiving the SAC Luders Trophy. Driven by a desire to travel and develop essential life skills, AS2 Thomas will soon join 1 Squadron. He aspires to earn promotion to Lance Corporal and specialise in Counter-Uncrewed Air Systems (C-UAS). Reflecting on the moment, he said he was “delighted to accept the honour on behalf of the RAF Regiment Training Wing,” and looks forward to one day returning as an instructor, sharing the story of how he received the portrait as a trainee.
As part of the King’s Colour Squadron Training Flight graduation, another outstanding Gunner was also recognised.
AS2 Lawrence, from St Cleer, Cornwall, was awarded the prestigious Morgan Trophy—given to the trainee who demonstrates exceptional fortitude, precision, and commitment to excellence throughout the course. His consistent performance on the parade square and in kit preparation set him apart as a future leader on the Squadron.
In recognition of his achievement, AS2 Lawrence accepted the signed portrait of His Majesty on behalf of the King’s Colour Squadron. It was presented by Group Captain Sutton, Deputy Commandant General of the RAF Regiment. This portrait, also generously donated by the Centurion Fund, will be displayed next to the King’s Colour for the Royal Air Force, a mark of the Squadron’s Royal affiliation, elite standards, and position as the custodian of The Colour for the RAF.
“I am honoured to receive the top student award for training flight. It is the culmination of weeks of hard work and dedication, and this will remain with me during my time on KCS and throughout my career. I now have the challenge of living up to what is expected of me.”
AS2 Lawrence
Outside of uniform, Lawrence brings the same dedication to sport, having previously played semi-professional football for Torquay FC. These moments not only honour individual excellence—they reinforce the RAF Regiment’s enduring commitment to service, excellence, and loyalty to His Majesty The King.
