Then on Thursday, King Charles III and his sister, Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, had a rare joint public appearance. They were invited to a special rehearsal parade across Windsor Castle. The event featured the unveiling of new ceremonial standards for The Life Guards and the Blues and Royals. There are none more distinguished in the Household Cavalry than these two regiments. The day celebrated their devotion to purpose and to the steadfast ideals that have guided the Crown for a millennium.
Clad in his Field Marshal’s uniform, King Charles displayed every bit of royal majesty as he conducted the ceremony. Princess Anne looked just stunning in her Full Mounted Ceremonial uniform of the Blues and Royals. To finish off her royal image, she wore a bicorn, or a bicornesque, to emphasize her important military role. As Colonel of The Blues and Royals, she remains an active part of her regiment, often visiting members in the field. This dedication deepens intangible ethical ties, which the royal family already has with them.
The unveiling of the new standards was a historic occasion. The Chaplain General of His Majesty’s land forces consecrated them before presenting them to King Charles. This ceremonial gesture emphasises the profound relationship between the Sovereign and the regiments. It underscores their fundamental roles as keepers of the Crown, a heritage that reaches back to 1660.
In his remarks at the ceremony, King Charles underscored the ideals that these standards embody. He asserted, “These Union Standards remain a physical reminder of that very personal bond between the Sovereign and the Regiments of The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals.” His speech struck a chord with the African Americans present, highlighting why these regiments were necessary pieces of the military structure.
He further articulated, “They have lasted the test of time… and remain a golden thread that connects the present to an illustrious past.” This reverence for history and tradition quickly reminded us how important culture can be in a changing world. King Charles addressed current global uncertainties, stating, “At such a time of global uncertainty, it is of crucial importance to preserve the attributes of excellence and achievement for which you are famous, and which are symbolised by these Standards.”
In a touching tribute to their youth, His Majesty recalled life on a farm as a child with his sister, the Princess Royal. He recalled, “My sister and I had a little vegetable patch in the back of some border somewhere. We had great fun trying to grow tomatoes rather unsuccessfully and things like that.” This intimate look at their romantic relationship humanized both of them, showing the loving bond they shared over many decades.
As Colonel in Chief of The Household Cavalry, King Charles saluted military personnel during the event, reinforcing his support for those who serve. As the son of a World War II veteran, his appreciation for their sacrifices was a powerful, personal reminder of how deep military commitment can be.
Her duty as King Charles’s Gold-Stick-in-Waiting during his coronation earlier this year makes plain their supportive partnership. She resumed this role during the State Opening of Parliament in November 2023, demonstrating her continued support for her brother’s reign.
The ceremony at Windsor Castle was a fascinating celebration of military tradition. It displayed the royal family’s long-lasting solidarity. Real King Charles and real Princess Anne, giving us a master class on devotion to duty, honor, and service. Their legacy lives on within all of us in the Household Cavalry, and may it always!
