Soldiers fresh from training at Catterick Garrison will step into the national spotlight next month as they take part in The King’s Birthday Parade in London, just days after completing their infantry training.
The newest members of the Household Division, Alma Platoon’s Coldstream Guards, are set to participate in the historic Trooping the Colour ceremony, marking the start of their ceremonial duties.
Following their pass out parade this Friday, the Guardsmen will head straight into final preparations for one of the most prestigious events in the British Army calendar. The King’s Birthday Parade, a tradition dating back more than 260 years, serves as the official celebration of the Sovereign’s birthday and is broadcast to millions across the country and abroad.
The transition from trainee to ceremonial soldier has been swift and demanding. Their months-long course at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick has included live-fire tactical exercises, drill on the parade square, and recently, fittings for their iconic red tunics.
Trainee Guardsman Joseph Mann, 27, admitted the scale of the occasion is daunting:
“Going from pass out to the King’s Birthday Parade is very daunting.
I didn’t think it was something I could go straight into as a new Guardsman, but ultimately the training here has made me feel prepared.
At the end of the day, it’s our bread and butter as Guardsmen to do big events and ceremonial duties.”
For Guardsman Brandon Westbury, 27, donning the famous uniform made the moment feel real:
“When I was fitted for my tunic it was a very surreal moment. It made me excited to be a part of the parade and what’s to come in my career.
Coming from Windsor, I’ve grown up seeing the Changing of the Guard and I never thought I’d be in their position. I can’t believe I’m now a Guardsman myself.”
Trainee Guardsman Harrison Fricker, 21, will be the first in his family to serve in the Armed Forces. His relatives are now hoping to secure some of the 8,000 tickets available through the public ballot.
“It’s a very new life to my family,” he said. “But they are very proud of me taking part in the King’s Birthday Parade so early in my career. They’re all trying to get tickets to watch me on the day.”
Alma Platoon’s Commander, Lieutenant Tom Allan, will be moving to a new role on Operation Interflex during the parade but says he will still find time to support his troops.
“The King’s Birthday Parade is watched by millions of people and for the Guardsmen, the personal pride they will feel taking part following their regimental history is massive.
Throughout tough times in training, I reminded the Guardsmen that there is an end in sight, and that being on the King’s Birthday Parade is the epitome of what we do within the Household Division.
I’m very proud of the guys. Watching them turn up as civilians in September and seeing them progress into the fine young men they are now.”
