The Ministry of Defence has announced it will be providing ceremonial support at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding on May 19 in several capacities. Prince Harry joined The Blues and Royals in April 2006 and went on two tours of Afghanistan with the Household Cavalry Regiment, eventually rising to the rank of Captain. Units of the Armed Forces that are of significance to him will be assisting at the wedding.
Over 250 members of the Armed Forces will perform ceremonial tasks at the wedding, including members of the Household Cavalry, who will form a staircase party during the carriage procession and at St George’s Chapel as part of the wedding proceedings. Streets within Windsor Castle’s grounds will be lined by members of the Windsor Castle Guard from 1st Battalion Irish Guards, and by Armed Forces personnel from the Royal Marines, Royal Navy Small Ships and Diving, RAF Honington, 3 Regiment Army Air Corps and the Royal Gurkha Rifles.They will be provided with music by the Band of the Irish Guards.
A statement released by Kensington Palace reveals that the royal couple is thrilled at the news: “Prince Harry and Ms. Markle are pleased that members of the Armed Forces will play such a special role in their Wedding. The Military, and these units in particular, hold a great significance for Prince Harry and the couple are incredibly grateful for their support.”
Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, said: “I am proud that members of the Armed Forces have been asked to take part in the ceremonial celebrations taking place on the royal couple’s wedding day. It is a happy occasion for the whole country and reminds us of the role the Armed Forces play in marking important events in the life of the nation.”
