Page 26 - RAPTC 23/24

24
www.raptcassociation.org.uk
In the records of military excellence, the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards stand as a shining example of discipline,
resilience, and solid dedication. Over the past year, this distinguished Battalion has exemplified the pinnacle of professionalism, navigating a relentless tempo of ceremonial duties, rigorous training, and operational deployments with steadfast determination.
At the forefront of their endeavours was the meticulous preparation for the King’s Coronation and the King’s Birthday Parade, events steeped in tradition and honour. During the greatness of these occasions, the Welsh Guards toiled tirelessly in the gymnasium and on the drill square, honing their bodies and perfecting their kit to match the exacting standards demanded by their ceremonial roles. Each step, each movement, was executed with precision and grace, a testament to the arduous hours spent in preparation.
Yet, even as they stood guard at Buckingham Palace and marched with regal brilliance, the Welsh Guards remained loyally focused on their broader mission. Behind the scenes, Number 2 Coy diligently prepared for the rigours of green soldiering, knowing that their skills would soon be put to the test on exercises and deployments.
One such deployment took them to the sweltering heat and challenging terrain of Louisiana for Exercise RATTLESNAKE. Here, amidst the dense forests and muddy trenches, they sharpened their combat
SSgt (SSI) N Lockey RAPTC
1ST BATTALION WELSH GUARDS
prowess, forging bonds of camaraderie that would prove invaluable in the trials to come.
But their year of service held even greater challenges, as the Prince of Wales Coy embarked on a 4-month operational deployment to the Falkland Islands. In this remote outpost of British sovereignty, the Welsh Guards braved the harsh winds, day and night, they patrolled the rugged
landscape, ready to react to anything that may pose a threat to the Islands.
As the Welsh Guards move forward, they aim to change tack, moving away from State Ceremonial Public Duties into 4 Brigade, where they will exploit all avenues of military training to ensure they meet the standards expected of an Infantry Battalion to be
held at high readiness.
Attached Arms Conducting Battle PT in Windsor
Visit from The Prince of Wales
SSgt (SSI) N Lockey and his Team of AAPTIs
Welsh Guards take part in the King’s Birthday Parade