Preface
In an elaborate ceremony held at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, London, on Saturday, the highly esteemed Crown Prince of Denmark, Frederik, was the epitome of nobility as he presented the first set of Colours to the 4th Battalion of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment. It was a momentous occasion as the Prince, standing in for his mother, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, the regiment’s Colonel-in-Chief, graced the battalion with this auspicious honor.
A Magnificent Event
With a gathering of about a hundred British soldiers, the Crown Prince presented the luxurious silk Colours to the battalion, making for an awe-inspiring and impressive sight. In attendance were soldiers from the reserve unit, who stood smartly on parade, and Lieutenant Colonel Steve Garmory, the Commanding Officer, who led the unit. The Band of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment added to the splendor of the moment by providing enchanting music during the parade. As the Colours were declared sacred, the prince was photographed rendering a salute, and he then bestowed the Colours upon the deserving soldiers.
The Importance of Colours
It is customary for infantry units to possess two Colours. The King’s Colour is a Union flag that symbolizes the regiment’s allegiance to the crown, while the regimental Colour, which is yellow, signifies the regiment’s spirit and identity. The 4th Battalion of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment is a reserve infantry unit that came into existence in September 2017. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Battalions were awarded their new Colours in 2017, but the 4th Battalion had to wait due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Historical Significance
The historical importance of Colours dates back to 1689 when Prince George of Denmark, the husband of Queen Anne of Great Britain, became the colonel of one of the forebear regiments, the 3rd Foot. This regiment was later known as the Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment), which is a significant reminder of the longstanding ties between the British and Danish royal families.
In conclusion, the presentation of Colours is a momentous event in the life of a regiment. It celebrates the regiment’s rich history, traditions, and its deep-rooted connection to the crown. The ceremony is a symbol of the spirit of the regiment and instills a sense of pride in soldiers who have been honored with this prestigious award.
