His Majesty The King was formally welcomed to Balmoral this week, greeted by a Guard of Honour from Balaklava Company, part of the 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, in a ceremony steeped in tradition and military pride.
The King, who holds the title of Colonel in Chief of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, was received by a company whose ceremonial credentials run deep. Though it operates as an independent rifle company, Balaklava Company has long been celebrated for its ceremonial role across Scotland, and standing Royal Guard at Balmoral is regarded as one of its greatest honours.
Major Tommy Blair MBE, now in his second year commanding Balaklava Company, said welcoming The King was a tremendous privilege for his soldiers. He noted that while the company carries a wealth of ceremonial experience from across Scotland and the wider UK, several new recruits joined its ranks over the past year, meaning the occasion marked their very first encounter with their Colonel in Chief. He added that the polish and precision on display reflected the many hours his soldiers had dedicated to preparing for such a significant event.
Musical accompaniment came from the Pipes, Drums and Bugles of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, led by Drum Major Sergeant William Crawford and Pipe Major Colour Sergeant Joe Davies. For Pipe Major Davies, a veteran of high-profile ceremonial duties, the day carried special significance, as it marked his first occasion leading the 2 SCOTS band in this role. He said it was always an honour to perform for The King’s arrival, and that although he had taken part in the ceremony many times before in his career, leading the band himself made this occasion especially memorable. He added that Balmoral offered a magnificent backdrop for the band, and that it was a genuine honour to welcome The King as he began his summer stay at the estate.
Adding a touch of regimental charm to proceedings, Corporal Cruachan IV, the Shetland pony who serves as mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, also took his place on parade, led by his handler, Corporal Rory Stewart.
Balaklava Company took up its Royal Guard duties in July and will continue serving in that role at Balmoral until October.
Beyond the ceremony itself, the occasion serves as a reminder of the breadth of opportunity within the Army today, which is currently recruiting to fill some 10,000 positions across the UK, spanning more than 200 different roles, from frontline soldiering and cyber security to helicopter piloting and catering. Those aged between 16 and 50 who are interested in a military career can find out more via the Army Jobs website.
Images: MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
