Anticipation builds ahead of service to present King with crown jewels
Hundreds of military personnel will march through Edinburgh ahead of a special ceremony at which the Scottish Crown Jewels will be officially presented to the new King and Queen.
The King will receive a crown, scepter and sword made of gold, silver and precious stones – collectively known as the Honors of Scotland – during a thanksgiving service at St Giles’ Cathedral on Wednesday.
More than 700 members of the armed forces will take part in a procession down the Royal Mile ahead of the ceremony, including representatives from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.
The procession is led by Shetland Pony Corporal Cruachan IV, the mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, along with personnel from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and Army Cadet Force.
The ceremony itself will be attended by staff from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, the Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) and the Scottish and Northern Irish Yeomanry.
Musicians from all parts of the armed forces will also take part in the event, including staff from the Royal Marines Band Scotland, the Army and RAF band SCOTS and Pipes and Drums.
A three-duty guard of honor will receive Their Majesties and the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay at the Palace of Holyroodhouse before the service.
Following the ceremony, the King and Queen are received by another guard of honor before the 12th Regiment of Royal Artillery fire a 21-gun salute at Edinburgh Castle.
The RAF Red Arrows will also fly over the Royal Mile later in the day, passing the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, weather permitting.
Scottish Minister Alister Jack said ahead of the service: “Scotland’s armed forces will play a key role in the service where the honors of Scotland will be bestowed on the King and Queen.” It is right and proper that they do so.
“Because they were such a crucial part of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, they will now be the focus of this important moment for King Charles.” I very much look forward to seeing our military personnel at their best.”
Military personnel last attended the presentation of the Honors of Scotland to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
The award of the Honors of Scotland marks the dedication of the King and Queen in Scotland and dates back to the 19th century when they were presented to King George IV.
Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Today is a historic day for Scotland and a proud day for the hundreds of military personnel involved who are on the front lines of the occasion and will once again demonstrate their first class drills and ceremonial duties.”
“The Armed Forces have a strong and deep-rooted connection with Scotland, so it is only fitting that they lead the day’s official negotiations in such spectacular fashion.”
