When in London I took so many photos of the horse guards that I have to share a few more. I was fascinated to learn more about this elite military branch. Now that I am home I have had time to do a bit of research.
photo: Beth Haynes
THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MOUNTED REGIMENT (HCMR)
“With a proud tradition of over three centuries service as a bodyguard to the Sovereign, and made up of the British Army’s two most senior regiments, the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment sits at the very heart of the cultural and military heritage of Britain. The Regiment’s rich history stretches back to 1660, from descendants of King Charles II’s Life Guards and the Earl of Oxford’s ‘Blues’.
Since then it has forged a tradition, ethos and reputation for excellence and professionalism, whether it is for State Ceremonial duties, or delivering manpower for the recent military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan.
copyright http://www.army.mod.uk
Every Household Cavalry soldier is first and foremost a fighting soldier, and uniquely in the British Army, the Household Cavalry use their qualities to excellent effect by combining their role in armoured fighting vehicles with the mounted State Ceremonial role. It is this flexibility that has allowed us to remain at the forefront of the combat operations of today, whilst still maintaining the highest standards and strong traditions of the past.
This brief is to inform what we do, who we are and how we do it. ” – Quote from the websitehttp://www.army.mod.uk/
photo: Beth Haynes
I found the time honoured tradition of the changing of the horse guard ceremony very beautiful.
photo: Beth Haynes
It is filled with colour, pageantry and the highest level of discipline and shine.
These are photos that I took. If you would like to learn more about the Household Cavalry and see a day in the life of these military personnel the link below is fantastic.
-Beth
GILESGATE JOURNAL 