Prince of Wales pays tribute to years of tradition

THE PRINCE OF Wales attended a consecration service in Yorkshire and presented a new military standard to the Queen’s Own Yeomanry.

Around 140 members of the regiment of army reservists took part in a parade accompanied by a military band on the lawn at Bramham Park House, near Wetherby, on Saturday.

Charles, who was wearing his ceremonial frock coat and sword, chatted to a number of troops during an inspection before presenting a new Guidon military standard to the commanding officer and regiment.

Warrant Officer Second Class David William, who marched the old standard off and the new one on, said it was an “honour”.

He added: “It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the prince, he joked about the fact that the weather has improved.”

Full-time reservist Captain Timothy Miller, 37, of Kirkstall, Leeds, who saw active service during a six-month tour of Afghanistan in 2011, said: “It was incredible. It was the first time the majority of serving soldiers have ever experienced a parade of this scale.

Capt Miller, a former supply teacher at Leeds schools, added: “Nobody enjoys preparing for a parade like this because it is long hours rehearsing. But on the day everyone forgets the hard work and as soon as the drum beats and you start marching you are full of pride and honour for the regiment.”

Charles said in a speech: “This is the second time you have been presented with a Guidon since the formation of the regiment in 1971, 47 years ago.

“The Guidon that has been marched off parade today represents over two centuries of volunteer service to the Crown at home and abroad; service which has continued to this day.

“Since its formation, the regiment has carried on the example of its forebears and served around the world on exercises and operations.

“As Your Royal Honorary Colonel, I am so very proud to witness the Queen’s Own Yeomanry continuing to uphold its traditions of service and duty whilst meeting the new challenges of an ever-changing world.

“I acknowledge with immense gratitude and undying admiration the truly exceptional contribution that your officers, soldiers and families provide so selflessly to the defence of the realm. You set us an outstanding example that I, for one, do not take for granted.”

The Prince of Wales has been the Royal Honorary Colonel of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry since 2000.