A speech delivered by The Princess of Wales at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Regimental Lieutenant Colonel, Officers, Warrant Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, Guardsmen, and families of the Irish Guards.

I really couldn’t be prouder to stand in front of you here today. It really is a true honour to be your Colonel. I am here to listen to you, to support you, and to champion you in all you do – this is a responsibility I do not take lightly.

Last week, I took the opportunity to visit some of you on Salisbury Plain, to see your inspiring work for myself. The day was bitterly cold, and while displaying your skills to yet another visitor was probably the last thing any of you wanted to do, all I saw was enthusiasm, pride, and incredible dedication. I was hugely impressed with your insistence that nothing is as bad as it seems, and – most of all - your boundless, irreverent, glorious sense of humour.

That’s what makes you who you are and what makes the Irish Guards unique.

I look forward to spending more time with you and your families, seeing your commitment to duty and service in all you do.

Before I close, however, I want to thank Colonel William. He has always talked about his fierce pride for this Regiment. I know he will continue to support us all in the work we do.

Finally, I would like to wish you all, a very happy St Patrick’s Day.

Thank you.