The Royal Marines receive New Colours from The King at Windsor Castle

For the first time in history, The Sovereign, as Captain General of the Royal Marines, has presented New Colours at Windsor Castle. It is also the first time that four Commando units have received new Colours concurrently, making this an historically significant ceremony.

Colours are ceremonial flags that traditionally served as rallying points in battle. Today they continue to be powerful symbols of a Unit’s history, achievements and spirit. Made of silk damask, with gold thread embroidery and a fringe, they bear the names of battle honours and cyphers.

The Colours cannot be used in active duty until they have been consecrated, and while they are no longer carried in battle, the Colours accompany Commando Units wherever they are deployed.

The parade formed up at Victoria Barracks, before marching through Windsor, to the Castle and through the George IV Gate.

After the Old Colours were marched off parade for the final time, The King, accompanied by the First Sea Lord and Commandant General of the Royal Marines, joined the parade in the Quadrangle.

His Majesty received a Royal Salute from the dais and the National Anthem was played by The Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines. 

Following the salute, His Majesty was invited to review the Royal Marines. 

Built on the proud history of the Royal Marines and Commando Forces from the Second World War, the modern Commando Force blends the exacting Corps values and the highest standards of soldiering.

The Chaplain of the Fleet consecrated the New Colours, marking their transition from flags to Colours, draped over a stack of regimental drums. The drum stack mirrors a tradition in which soldiers would create a sacred space on the battlefield or at their base to hold a service to pray for protection and courage before battle. 

The New Colours were then presented by The King, who saluted each Colour.

Addressing troops on parade and their guests, His Majesty said:

It is now twenty-five years since my father, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, presented New Colours to the Royal Marines, and so it gives me immense pride and pleasure to be able to do so once again today.

The King also acknowledged the tragic helicopter incident that happened earlier this week:

"I would also wish to take this opportunity to acknowledge with the greatest sadness the crash of a Royal Navy helicopter on Wednesday. As a former Junglie pilot with 845 Naval Air Squadron, I was profoundly shocked to hear this most tragic news. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends and colleagues of those involved. Their service is held in the highest regard, and they remain very much in our prayers."

Read His Majesty's speech in full here.

Following His Majesty's Address, the New Colours were marched back to the formed up Units, followed by a regimental
march past and an advance in review order, while the Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines played the British Grenadiers.

Upon completion, the Royal Marines gave three cheers before marching off parade.