The King’s Colour Squadron (KCS) of the RAF Regiment stepped into the international spotlight this weekend as they mounted guard at Buckingham Palace, supported by the Band of the RAF Regiment and RAF Music Services.
Following the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony on Friday, the Band of the RAF Regiment led the parade along The Mall, drawing large crowds of tourists and Londoners who gathered to witness one of Britain’s most iconic traditions.
The KCS is unique within the Royal Air Force Regiment. While serving as No. 63 Squadron RAF Regiment in their primary role of Force Protection, they also act as the RAF’s ceremonial display unit. Based at RAF Northolt in west London, their dual responsibilities ensure they are a familiar presence at state occasions including Remembrance commemorations and the State Opening of Parliament.
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The ceremonial guard mounting at Buckingham Palace is part of the KCS’s Public Duties role, shared on rotation with the Household Division of the British Army. This longstanding duty reflects the RAF Regiment’s versatility, bridging the gap between military protection and pageantry.
The Changing of the Guard itself is a tradition dating back more than 500 years, to the reign of King Henry VII. Since then, soldiers have stood watch over the reigning monarch, with the ceremony evolving into a symbol of continuity, discipline, and national pride.
Fridays’s performance showcased not only precision drill but also the musical excellence of RAF bands, reinforcing the RAF’s enduring presence at the heart of national ceremonial life.
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