Many civilians may think the British Army can parade anywhere it likes, but that’s not the case. Centuries-old traditions, some going back to the Civil War, state that an Armed Forces unit needs to be awarded a special privileged status to march with ‘drums beating and bayonets fixed’ through a city.
71st (City of London) Yeomanry Signal Regiment has recently been awarded that honour by the Corporation of London and the Mayor of London. Given to mark the 50th anniversary of the unit’s founding, and coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Royal Signals to which it belongs, it is a huge honour for the organisation and its leadership.
The unit is part of the Army Reserves and provides military communications for national operations both within the City of London and elsewhere. It has four sub-units, spanning Kent, Essex, Middlesex and the City.
After weeks of preparation, the day started with a service of thanksgiving at St Andrew’s Church, Holborn immediately followed by the parade to the Guildhall, where the troops dispersed and greeted their guests for a reception.
Check out some photos form the day! Here.