The flags always touch the ground for remembrance services and the king. Those are deemed more important than the flag which therefore pays them the utmost respect. The flags are given to them by the Sovereign who is their commander in chief. Americans on the other hand pledge their allegiance to a flag. Very different I think.
Why do British flags touch the ground? Even today, a British military custom calls for troops to “trail” their military unit's flag. In this salute, the staff or pike on which the flag is mounted is swung down so the flag drags on the ground before the sovereign.
@@normanrandall2495some years ago I had the privilege of being ensign to the Queens Colour at a parade where for the first and only time all of the Colours and Guidons of the New Zealand army were assembled in Christchurch. We drilled for nearly two weeks using staffs with blankets for the Colour and a great rock to simulate the weight of the crown on the top. It was hard work but the result was well worth it, with the guard firing a feau de joi ( hope I've spelt it correctly) and colours trailing in the presence of the Queen's representative. Very special.
While Colours are renewed every 10-12 years, The King's Company Colour, the Royal Standard of the Grenadier Guards is the personal gift of The Sovereign, presented only once in each reign, and is laid at the feet of Sovereigns who have passed, upon their catafalques. As such these Colours are lowered to the ground in recognition of the Sovereign. The biggest disgrace would be to lose the colour in battle. The French during the Napoleonic Wars had Imperial Eagles as their colour.
The guys in the uniforms you asked about are the Yeomen of the Guard. They are popularly known as the Beefeaters and are ceremonial guardians of the nearly 1,000 year old Tower of London where the Crown Jewels are usually kept when not in use for a Coronation. On ceremonial occasions, the Yeoman Warders wear the Yeomen of the Guard's distinctive ceremonial uniform, that consists of a royal red tunic, red knee-breeches, flat hat, and black shoes. The letters CR III (Charles Rex [Rex being the Latin word for King] are formed into the 'royal cipher'. Nice reaction video - thanks :)
Actually the Yeoman Warders are the Beefeaters, they guard the Tower of London. The Yeoman of the Guard are one of the three units that make up the Sovereign’s Bodyguard. Also the ones wearing the all red uniforms with the CR with the massive Royal Crest in between them are the Royal Watermen
I understand they used special earpieces that kept all the different musicians on the same time from the front to the back of the parade. All the buttons on the uniforms that had ER, had to be changed to CR for the coronation.
The ones you didn't know are yeoman warder,s better known as beefeaters. These are retired soldiers that work in a ceremonial role at the tower of london.
The Leopard and and Tiger Skins were given to Members from the Territorial Nations, to keep their Uniforms from wearing out in the areas where the large heavy drum would have rubbed against their clothing. They are gradually being phased out; and replaced with synthetic cloth in a "Leopard Pattern". There is a
The men in the very old fashioned uniforms, armed with pikes were the "Beefeaters", the Yeoman Of The Guard. They are the Sovereign's ceremonial personal bodyguard. Not to be confused with the Yeoman Warders whop guard the Tower of London. If you see them together in their ceremonial uniforms, you can see the difference. The letters that you couldn't remember are the Royal Cipher. The flags lowered to the ground are Regimental standards. Originally the colours were the rallying point in battle for the regiments. They are lowered in salute to other units and the sovereign.
Marching is just a smart way of walking...that's what I was told at basic training with the British army. 😃 The flags on the left are the Regimental colours. On these flags are the battles that the certain regiment has took part in.
My understanding is that the US Army employed Prussian drill instructors straight after Independence. Obviously it has evolved since then, but compare the way that US and German troops hold their rifles at the slope arms.
Good video and thanks for the compliments about our armed forces. You asked about the drummer wearing leopardskin. This is a tradition for HM Royal Marines going back to the 18th century whereby the bass drummer wears an animal pelt (leopard, tiger or lion) originally following the incorporation of other nationals into the band. The purpose was to protect the uniform from the wear of the heavy bass drums. But it's only the bass drummer and the pelts are now synthetic for conservation purposes.
this is what proper marching looks like not the US version which is just walking it is worn by bass and tenor drummers to protect the uniform from rubbing by the heavy drums the camera person will be military so that side of barriers
Learn and check the medal ribbons.... they are not given away (Unlike some Armies), with a good eye you can assess a mans military career in 3 seconds.
You might be better to watch the BBC coverage ehich eould have commentary explaining what is going on. This seems to be cobbled together by bystanders in the crowd.
The ones he comments on are the Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London. Almost identical (the two corps were one until 1509 when Henry VIII moved out of the Tower of London) but without the cross-belt.
The word "yeoman" also has an interesting history. During the early Medieval Period, yeomen were servants in a nobleman's household, and later the name was applied to farmers who owned their own land. (Presumably this came about because retired servants might be able to buy their own small-holdings.) Some say the name yeoman derived from "young man", but others suggest it was from "yew man", because archers made their bows from yew wood. Young men were generally required to practice archery, so that they could be fairly proficient if suddenly called upon for military defence.
@@vandatavna7681 This would be why the yeoman have to live with their families within the tower and they also have to pay 8.5% of their wages which was 3000 pounds per year- That's from their 36k pounds wages. They are considered to having to be independent and just working. They are also required to own a house outside for when they retire. Average age to become a yeoman is 42...and average retirement age is 62. So i guess you could call them servants.
The flags are the Regimental Colours of a regiment with their battle honours on them. Some of these regiments history go back several hundred years. The Regimental colours (flags) are given to the regiment by the "colonel in chief" of the regiment, this person is usually a member of the royal family, they are always lowered when a general salute is given. Other than a general salute, typically the regiment salutes the Colours/Flag as a sign of respect to the monarchy, as they represent the King/Queen. When a Regiment is disbanded the regiment colours are hung in the regiments chapel, which is located in the city/county where the regiment is from. Typically the regiment has what they call "Freedom of the City" and once a year the regiment exercises that right, to march thru the city with Bayonets fixed to their rifles. The infantry regiments in the UK with the exception of the guard regiments, are typically build up of men/woman from a particular area in England which is very different than any other country that i know of. I am originally from Yorkshire and served in the Prince of Wales's Regiment of Yorkshire (disbanded now). 99% of the regiment was guys from Yorkshire, which meant that when we go home we are all going to the same area. It also means that the guys/girls are very loyal to the regiment, as it represents where you were born/raised. I typically say i'm a Yorkshireman before i say i'm an Englishmen. Some people say the traditions are a bit long in the tooth, but as an ex soldier 9 years i personally have huge respect for the armed forces and the history.
In Australia, the Queens and Regimental Colour is only lowered to the ground in a Royal Salute. On a General Salute, the Ensigns let the Colours are loosed and flutter in the breeze.
Charles was very mindful of the economic downturn in Western Countries and scaled down the Coronation to a fraction of what it was for QE2's Coronation. However, it was magnificent non the less. Nobody does Pageantry like the British.
@@cato9939 Why don't you start a political party and campaign for a Republic? If you gain a majority of seats in the Commons you can quickly abolish the Monarchy. Or you could join the Magic Circle, get yourself a magic wand and magic it away. Of course you wont do any of this, because you are not mature enough.
The men with the new cypher on their historical uniforms are retired soldiers who work as Yeoman Warders at the Tower of London. They live in the Tower, they act as guardians, they look after the ravens and guard the Crown jewels. Their main job is to act as tour guides and escort groups of tourists around the Tower of London. The leopard skins are used by drummers to protect their uniforms from the larger drums. Originally there were African recruits who used real leopard skins (legs, head, paws etc) which caught on. Obviously, today, they are faux skins.
@Boogledigs they don't actually guard the crown jewels, as well as the most up to date alarms they are under armed guard Yeoman Warders are not armed and when as the Yeoman of the Guard they are on ceremonial duty they only carry ornimental halberds
FunFact: 4,000 people were on parade all drawn to attention as the King and Queen joined their carriage. At the command from ONE man every soldier, sailor, Marine and aviator stepped off as one to the same drumbeat. It was done by some clever communications but even the bands played the same sequence of music from start to finish. Forces from every Commonwealth nation were represented in the parade. Led by those Mounties of course. An extraordinary feat for an extraordinary day.
@killermigraine at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation the March past was made by 30,000. However at the time the British Military was just under a million strong. Nowadays the army is about 80,000 and the entire military under 200,000. It wouldn’t be sensible or possible to have that many personnel as part of the procession
@@killermigraine1953 was not that many years after World War II ended and ALL of us allied/Commonwealth countries were counting our blessings and needing to stick close to each other. 70 years later life is totally different.
I'm an elder American. So happy to see a young American enjoy a marching band! Thank you! I enjoy learning about history as well. Not such a good student till I was OUT of school. Oh, well. Love it now.
The Canadians led the entire procession...as for the flag on the ground, its only lowered like that in remembrance for the fallen and the Monarch as an act of deep respect
The Animal Aprons, or skins as they are known, originated a few hundred years ago, with the British Army being stationed in Africa and India, and needing an apron to protect the uniform. Animal skins were locally available and their use became standard practice. The skins have now been phased out in favour of synthetics.
I'm pretty sure they are only used by the bass and tenor drummers, as their instruments are heavier than the normal snare drums. They may also provide some extra cushioning, which would be welcome!
What I was taught when I was in the NZ Army band is that it's from the days of African slaves who played drums wearing traditional animal skins. The origin of military bands is drum corps so it makes sense, but both theories make sense. Interestingly the army bands don't wear them, just the royal Marines and some pipes and drums
@@bernardtaylor7043 Correct, only the Bass and Tenor drummers use the skins. The side drummers has a cloth guard that is tied against the left leg to protect the trouser leg from the drum
At exactly 7:05 in the video, on the far left of the screen, following the Gold Coach, is The Princess Royal (Princess Anne) on horseback wearing a ceremonial military uniform. She wears a black tunic, trousers with red stripe, a black bicorn hat (pointed front and back) with a tall red plume. Her role at the Coronation was that of Gold Stick in Waiting, the ceremonial "bodyguard", entrusted to ensure the King's safety with a gold-headed ebony staff. Princess Anne is Colonel-in-Chief of 4 cavalry regiments (including the Royal Horse Guards/Dragoons, and the King's Royal Hussars, and two Canadian regiments). She is also Colonel of the Blues & Royals (Household Cavalry). Princess Anne (72) is an accomplished equestrian, winning gold and silver medals during the 1970s at the European Eventing Championships ... ... and several decades on, she is still greatly admired for her sense of duty in all her honorary military roles, and her continual hard work attending official events up and down the country, on behalf of the Sovereign.
This videographer was stationed about two-thirds of the way along the 1.2 mile-long military parade. Hence, you missed the 60 Commonwealth contingents, most infantry regiments, much of the RN, and all of the RAF sections. A special element was that all 14 bands began the same second with the same tune from one end of the parade to the other.
the best marching bit was the Navy when they returned to the Palace, the ranks had to be reduced to fit under an arch and they did it so smoothly with one step, perfection.
Traditionally, the bass drummer of Her Majesty's Royal Marine band wears an animal skin pelt while on parade. This tradition goes back to the 18th century, when drummers who joined from other countries wore animal skins to protect the uniform from wearing out because of the large, bulky drums.
The Flags are Actually Kings/ Queens colours they touch the ground for a Royal Salute. Not sure if it happens for other salutes as I only did it for a Queens Guard.
I think the US is pretty unique with the traditions surrounding the flag, because as a nation it did not have a long shared history early on - so the symbols of state like the flag and anthem have been regarded much more highly than they would be in older nations
The Yeomen Warders are the oldest of the royal guards, founded by King Henry VII in the late 15th century. You may have noticed another man dressed entirely in red - he was a Thames Waterman, another very ancient unit dating from the middle ages when travelling by river in a royal barge was quicker and cleaner than travelling overland.
Royal Marine Band personnel, male and female, undertake basic infantry soldier training at Commando Training Centre Lympstone before undertaking their musical training. While recruited for their musical ability, they must also be capable of military activity. Their wartime role is primarily logistics and medical support. A Royal Marine Band deployed to the Falklands War; their story is told in "The Band that Went To War".
The bearskin worn by the Guards Regiments were captured by the Grenadier Guards from the defeated French Imperial Guards of Napoleon's Army in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 and has become the ceremonial headgear of all the Guards Regiments including the Irish Guards formed in 1900 and the Welsh Guards formed in 1915 , the oldest Guards Regiments are the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and the Scots Guards.
The history of the bearskin is very interesting, and it's probably the most iconic and imposing headgear that any soldier wears, anywhere in the world! And the different Guards regiments can be distinguished by the colour of the plume in their bearskin, as well as the "layout" of their tunic buttons. The Grenadier Guards have a white plume on the left side of the bearskin, and "single" buttons (i.e. equally spaced). The Coldstream Guards have a red plume on the right side, and pairs of buttons (i.e. spaced in sets of 2). The Scots Guards have no plume, and buttons in threes (spaced in sets of 3). The Irish Guards have a blue plume on the right side, and buttons in sets of four. The Welsh Guards have a white and green plume on the left side, and buttons in fives. The plumes originally denoted their position in the line of battle. The Scots have no plume because they were in the centre, and those with plumes on the right or left denote their position to the right or left of the Scots Guards. They also have different badges on collar and shoulder. And the rifle the Guards carry is the SA80 made by Heckler & Koch (the British Army's standard combat weapon).
Bearskin caps in the British army first appeared in the 1740s, worn by the grenadiers of the 42nd Highland Regiment, (known familiarly as the 'Black Watch') and subsequently appeared in a small number of other regiments, worn usually by the drummers. This was on an unofficial regimental basis, funded by the individual colonels in command. In 1768, a Royal Warrant authorised bearskin caps for wear by grenadiers and drummers of all regiments of foot, and for all ranks of the three 'national' Fuzileer regiments (Royal, Scots and Welsh) and for the 2nd Royal North British Dragoons known also as 'The Scots Greys') The bearskin cap replaced the embroidered cloth 'mitre' cap worn previously by all those categories. At the battle of Waterloo in 1815, the First Regiment of Foot Guards took part in the repulse of Napoleon's 'Garde Impériale' that sealed the defeat of Napoleon. Because the enemy troops they faced were wearing tall bearskin caps, it was thought they had been elite 'grenadiers of the Garde.' In fact, they weren't; they were another category known as 'Chasseurs,' but as a result the First Foot Guards were granted the honour of calling themselves the First Grenadier Regiment of Foot Guards, with all ranks authorised to wear the bearskin 'grenadier' cap as an honorary distinction. In 1831 this privilege was extended to the Coldstream Regiment of Foot Guards and the Third Foot Guards (who were re-titled the 'Scots Fusilier Guards'). When the bearskin cap was abolished for all other regiments in 1844, it became the unique distinguishing feature of the Foot Guards as it remains today.
I don't know if anyone else mentioned it but the entire parade began to march at the same exact time : from Westminster Abbey all the way to Trafalgar Square. The King's sister, Anne, was riding in uniform immediately behind the Gold State Coach. They are quick marching as opposed the HM the Queen's funeral when they all slow marched. Go look at those videos.
Military parades may not be big, but you have 4th July parades, and parades in every state, county, city or town for various occasions. And of course the march girls, adept drills etc,so you have a lot of tradition in that area yourselves
let;s not forget . The King arrived at Westminster Abbey for his coronation in his Australian coach. God bless the King of Australia King Charles the Third.
One thing you didn't comment on here at the moment those flags touched the ground is the amazing precision that the formation had when they wheeled around to march around the two bends . Those on the outer edge could have easily 'overshot' and the guys with the flags would have had to step back, as it turned out they came very close. Check it out: 12:36
The different regimental colours (flags) are slowly laid across the ground as that regiment's salute. Absolutely intentional. Each regiment has its band, hugely historical. The Scots regiments' Piper actually played at the front of the whole regiment - hugely brave.
The leopard skins are worn by tenor drummers and some bass drummers, it goes back to when african drummers in british army bands wore them to protect their skin and clothes from the heavy old drums.
The men marching in the uniforms with ruffs at their necks and carrying pikes are known as Yeoman Warders who guard the Tower of London. They are also known as Beefeaters
Led off by the Senior Service, the Royal Navy, the band of his majesty's Royal Marines, then the Royal Marines, followed by the Army and bringing up the rear, the junior service the Royal Air Force. 😀
5:18 The uniform is that of the Yeoman Warders of the Guard. Among other duties, they guard the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. They are all former Senior NCOs with an unblemished record of service. The are also known as 'Beefeaters'. 8:10 The 'no flag touches the ground' thing is an American thing. As I understand it, the flag is symbolically rather more significant - flag as Head of State'. Our Head of State is driving past in a Coach & Four, so the protocol dictates that the flags dip. It's a King-thing.
Yes that "vehicle" is the very gorgeous and most uncomfortable iconic Gold Coach. It's only gold leaf not solid gold. The flags touching the ground is a form of salute i think reserved for the Queens/Kings Guard. Their flag laws aren't the same as ours. For instance, when the King is in residence at any palace, including Westminster Palace, the royal standard is flown and when the Sovereign isn't in residence the Union Jack is flown. In the US marching pageantry isn't something as big as it is in GB because our military isn't on the world stage like the British Military is. In the US we don't have trooping the colours, we don't have changing of the guard at the white house, we don't have our military band playing at the white house. Whereas in London pretty much every day those things happen, except trooping the colours which happens every june since King George VI. here's a link to trooping the colours in 2022. ruclips.net/video/1zKpC2tv9cc/видео.html&ab_channel=Vinkath
You need to find the BBC clip showing the Navy at the top of The Mall going from 12 abreast to 6 abreast in a few steps to go through the gates of Buckingham Palace. So clever!
It was Admiralty Arch. The arches where they went from 12 to 6 columns. They go through the arches onto the Mall & Buckingham Palace is at the other end of the Mall.
Pagentry?? Ceremony! 😅 The guys in red and carrying pikes are Yeoman Guards who are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London but also Royal Bodyguards. They are all veterans who have served for a long time - also known as Beefeaters". Their official title is: The Yeomen Warders of His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign's Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary'. The flags you refer to are Colours presented to the regiments by the Monarch and are fiercely guarded and revered. They touch the ground when a salute is performed, particularly a Royal Salute.
possibly the reason why the Americans don't march is because marching is from a long time before the USA existed it was a great way to get thousands of men to battle in formation with an added bonus of making that army very intimidating just imagine 80 000 men marching into battle in unison halting in unison and presenting arms in unison if you could put fear into the enemy before the fight even started that was half the battle won
I agree with you on the different marching styles. The biggest difference between US and British marching is the arms. The British armed forces swing their arms to shoulder height whereas US armed forces only swing their arms as if walking.
Without trying to be offensive, the British do not think of the Union Flag (oka Union Jack) as anything more than our country's symbol as with any other country except the US where they tend to think of it more reverential - almost to the point of worship. It's a piece of cloth that we use until it gets careworn, at which point we replace it with a new one. We permit it to touch the ground as a symbol of respect to our fallen and our sovereign. Should it ever touch the ground unintentionally, it's simply picked up again like you would pick up a handkerchief or a bundle of clothes, because it's no more than a piece of cloth! However, the flags you are referring to are actually known as "The Colours." Every regiment and their constituent battalions have their Colours, on which are emblazoned their individual Battle Honours that go back to the earliest days of the unit's formation. These are presented to the regiment or battalion as the case may be, by the sovereign (King, Queen or royal representative such as a Duke or Prince). The Colours are always saluted in any parade or ceremony, and are always treated with care and respect. Every soldier will know his regiment's Battle Honours, and he will be taught to uphold the honours won previously by his unit. It's called "esprit de corps," pride in his unit's traditions won in battle. You say that US soldiers walk rather than march; I think differently, for I regard it as a "Creep-walk," because that's what it looks like. You might also note that our troops' trousers appear to hang above the boot rather than resting on the lace-up. The reason is simple: whether on the march or standing at attention, they always hang straight without any folding between the hem and the crotch - i.e. crisp and sharp. It's also a matter of historical fact that the dress uniform of the US Marines, Navy and Air Force are copies of British forces, although the US tend to embellish them with other insignia or effects. You will rarely see a British soldier with more than nine or ten medals - every one of which he will have earned. Unfortunately, the US give medals like candy, so you will find that a US trooper whi has served for say five years and never been in a battle situation, will likely have more medals than British soldier who has served in several military campaigns and has twenty years service. He does not get anything that he has not earned throighout his dervice.
@@davidedwards1988 Perhaps you have an eyesight problem, for nowhere in my comment did I refer to the Union Flag as a "rag." Perhaps your poor eyesight has also disbled any ability you have to spell and use capitals in proper names viz Union Jack or Union Flag. When you feel the need to criticise someone, first be sure you have your facts right, and secondly, have sufficient education to communicate properly. Trolling is not a meaningful way to put a point across - but that's exactly what you're doing, isn't it?
An interesting point about the marching styles of europe and the US, its caused by the differences in militayr history, marching in cadence was introduced in the late 17th century for the purpose of manoevring close order bodies of troops around a battlefield, to arrive in decent order and at the same time, the troops within a unit had to move at the same speed, this was even more important in the eighteeth century when maintaining a line of battalions was crucial, so defined step length and cadence was trained in depth. In the US the formal style battles of Europe were not the norm, upto the civil war, battles were much less formal and so the importance of cadenced step was less important - by the time of the civil war the advances in weapons had changed the need to manoever troops in close order so cadenced marching was less of a priority - those traditions stuck Dipping the flag, is a salute and for Regimental Colours only given to the Soverign or the dead Leapord skins on Drummers - Originally it was any animal fur or skin and simply there to protect the expensive uniforms from wear and tear from the drum, over time as drums ceased to have a military signalling role it became purely decorative and the leapord skin was chosen, presumably it was the cheapest and readily available
We have the same tradition in that dropping a flag to the ground would be very disrespectful. But purposefully dipping it is different. Lowering/Dipping flags (/standards/banners/colours) is the highest form of salute, it is a mark of deference and respect. Think of it as the equivalent of presenting arms in ceremonial rifle or sword drill. It is moved out in a particularly flourished way to show off the main design of the flag (which generally for a regiment's standard will be their battle honours). In the drill manuals, there are also variations of it depending on local conditions (wet and muddy ground, strong winds etc.). It can also be done on the march, where the bearer will bring it out 90 degrees perpendicular. Most countries have traditions like this, which is obvious for example at the Parade of Nations in the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic Games where pretty much every country dips their flags to salute the host government, but the US team never does. I understand that in the US you do sometimes dip flags, but only to 45 degrees and never the national flag. We just don't hold our national flag to that level of deference. Full Royal Salutes, as they are called, are only given in two situations: to the King (and his representatives, or to foreign Heads of State), or to give respect to the fallen at the Cenotaph/on Remembrance Day. The equivalent tradition on ships at Sea to salute is to bring the flag down quickly to half-mast (half-staff) and then quickly back up again. I think the American tradition is to return those salutes if rendered to them, but not to initiate them, but I might be wrong on that.
This may not be strictly accurate but as a British child at school in UK 1950s, we were taught that the Stars and Stripes should never touch the ground. This is because during the War of Independence, at a very important battle, The British Fleet was watching for the Stars and Stripes to be hauled down, which would be a sign of surrender. Someone said something like That flag will NEVER be lowered...... This is memory of a now 78 yearold woman who taught stuff about all countiries at an early age and has benefitted from a good state school education. I gather that sort of history is not taught now....... I'd be glad to know if this is true and if any British person remebers the same lessons.... Thanks
Whilst I don't remember as many details as you have described, I always remember being taught in history lessons that the US never let the stars and stripes touch the ground because "that flag will never be lowered". I am a bit younger than you (69).
Ensigns and Colours (flags) lying on the ground very important - their specific regiments are saluting the monarch by laying them slowing down as they past. Would miss that in the States!!
You asked about the tiger and leopard skins worn over the bass drummers uniform. These started to be worn by HM Royal Marines back in the 18th century to protect uniforms. They have only been taken from dead animals and are now replaced by synthetic and to be phased out as not popular with millennial culture.
The 'soldiers" who you can see at the start (immediately after the sailors step off) are actually Royal Marines. As part of the Royal Navy they marched in the seventh group, which was closest to the King bar the Household Division (the Foot Guards and Household Cavalry, who are his bodyguard), with the rest of the Army, RAF and Commonwealth troops in the first six groups because they have lower precedence that the Navy, which is the senior service.
It is said that the Royal Marines have a reputation for being among the best sniper units in the world. There is a sniper section in each of the recce troops of 40, 42 and 45 Commando.
Although I'm not a Brit I have to freely admit that when the Brits DO push that ceremonial button there's no-one who can come close to them. It's them explaining that a particular ceremony is 600 or 400 years old that's when the head starts to spin.
Those uniforms are worn by tower wardens, often known as beefeaters and they guard castles, particularly those open to the public. One of their tasks is to lead guided tours for the public.
photography is just at front of crowds lining the Coronation route, over the crowd control railings, Guardsmen and Police are on the military side of the rails, lining the route...which can take 80 mins to pass you!
😮Here in Canada the leopard like robes are usually worn by drummers the purpose is to protect their uniforms from marks or wear which can be caused by the drums rubbjng on the fabric of the uniforms.
You would just love the very end of the BBC coverage....the Royal Salute with every member of the armed forces lined up in the back garden of Buckingham Palace and giving Three Cheers (amazing to watch). Try to find it.
There where several military press officers from most units, including the cadets hence the position, it should also be noted the pageantry of those guarding the procession way both the military and the police, police facing out and military in.
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The flags always touch the ground for remembrance services and the king. Those are deemed more important than the flag which therefore pays them the utmost respect. The flags are given to them by the Sovereign who is their commander in chief. Americans on the other hand pledge their allegiance to a flag. Very different I think.
'flags' are Regimental Colours. just as you would lower your lance to show that you have no threatening intent the colour is lowered similarly.
Why do British flags touch the ground?
Even today, a British military custom calls for troops to “trail” their military unit's flag. In this salute, the staff or pike on which the flag is mounted is swung down so the flag drags on the ground before the sovereign.
@@normanrandall2495some years ago I had the privilege of being ensign to the Queens Colour at a parade where for the first and only time all of the Colours and Guidons of the New Zealand army were assembled in Christchurch. We drilled for nearly two weeks using staffs with blankets for the Colour and a great rock to simulate the weight of the crown on the top.
It was hard work but the result was well worth it, with the guard firing a feau de joi ( hope I've spelt it correctly) and colours trailing in the presence of the Queen's representative. Very special.
@@HaurakiVet Feu de joie 😉
While Colours are renewed every 10-12 years, The King's Company Colour, the Royal Standard of the Grenadier Guards is the personal gift of The Sovereign, presented only once in each reign, and is laid at the feet of Sovereigns who have passed, upon their catafalques. As such these Colours are lowered to the ground in recognition of the Sovereign. The biggest disgrace would be to lose the colour in battle. The French during the Napoleonic Wars had Imperial Eagles as their colour.
The guys in the uniforms you asked about are the Yeomen of the Guard. They are popularly known as the Beefeaters and are ceremonial guardians of the nearly 1,000 year old Tower of London where the Crown Jewels are usually kept when not in use for a Coronation. On ceremonial occasions, the Yeoman Warders wear the Yeomen of the Guard's distinctive ceremonial uniform, that consists of a royal red tunic, red knee-breeches, flat hat, and black shoes. The letters CR III (Charles Rex [Rex being the Latin word for King] are formed into the 'royal cipher'. Nice reaction video - thanks :)
Actually the Yeoman Warders are the Beefeaters, they guard the Tower of London. The Yeoman of the Guard are one of the three units that make up the Sovereign’s Bodyguard. Also the ones wearing the all red uniforms with the CR with the massive Royal Crest in between them are the Royal Watermen
Thank you, that was interesting.
All Warrant officers with a minimum of 22 years service.
All the Beefeaters are soldiers as well . Usually the best of the best .
Fun fact: the Beefeater uniforms date from 1552.
I understand they used special earpieces that kept all the different musicians on the same time from the front to the back of the parade. All the buttons on the uniforms that had ER, had to be changed to CR for the coronation.
The Yeoman of the Guard ware the Uniform going back to the days of Tudor King Henry VIII of England. They are a Tudor design.
Never forget nobody does pomp and circumstances like we British.
Interesting take on the proceedings. I’m not British although I live here & I find the whole processing thing very interesting. Always so well done
The ones you didn't know are yeoman warder,s better known as beefeaters. These are retired soldiers that work in a ceremonial role at the tower of london.
Great to see you back!
The ones you did not know are "The Yeoman of the Guard" or "Beefeaters".
The Leopard and and Tiger Skins were given to Members from the Territorial Nations, to keep their Uniforms from wearing out in the areas where the large heavy drum would have rubbed against their clothing. They are gradually being phased out; and replaced with synthetic cloth in a "Leopard Pattern".
There is a
The men in the very old fashioned uniforms, armed with pikes were the "Beefeaters", the Yeoman Of The Guard. They are the Sovereign's ceremonial personal bodyguard. Not to be confused with the Yeoman Warders whop guard the Tower of London. If you see them together in their ceremonial uniforms, you can see the difference. The letters that you couldn't remember are the Royal Cipher.
The flags lowered to the ground are Regimental standards. Originally the colours were the rallying point in battle for the regiments. They are lowered in salute to other units and the sovereign.
Marching is just a smart way of walking...that's what I was told at basic training with the British army. 😃
The flags on the left are the Regimental colours. On these flags are the battles that the certain regiment has took part in.
All the best with your progress in the armed services. Wishing you well.
The animal aprons are normally reserved for base drummers
My understanding is that the US Army employed Prussian drill instructors straight after Independence. Obviously it has evolved since then, but compare the way that US and German troops hold their rifles at the slope arms.
At 5.54 the Canadians aren't Troops they are members of The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and are commonly called Mounties!
Good video and thanks for the compliments about our armed forces.
You asked about the drummer wearing leopardskin. This is a tradition for HM Royal Marines going back to the 18th century whereby the bass drummer wears an animal pelt (leopard, tiger or lion) originally following the incorporation of other nationals into the band. The purpose was to protect the uniform from the wear of the heavy bass drums. But it's only the bass drummer and the pelts are now synthetic for conservation purposes.
this is what proper marching looks like not the US version which is just walking it is worn by bass and tenor drummers to protect the uniform from rubbing by the heavy drums the camera person will be military so that side of barriers
Note, there is a Royal Air Force, Royal Navy but no Royal Army
Learn and check the medal ribbons.... they are not given away (Unlike some Armies), with a good eye you can assess a mans military career in 3 seconds.
The flags dipping to the ground is in a salute
The only flag not to dip or be at half mast is the royal standard ,
This is over 1000s years of our tradition
The recorder is beside the soldiers
Halestone will you turn up your mic a little thanks? Americans don't march of run fast as they have transport! The lowered flags are a salute.
When the British Army learned to march, Americans didn’t have a country and transport WAS marching😂
The leopard skin is worn by drummers to protect their instruments and their uniforms. Nothing symbolic, entirely practical!
They are the beef eaters
You might be better to watch the BBC coverage ehich eould have commentary explaining what is going on. This seems to be cobbled together by bystanders in the crowd.
The Yeomen of the Guard were formed in 1485 as the bodyguard to King Henry VII, and predate the British Army by around 200years.
The ones he comments on are the Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London. Almost identical (the two corps were one until 1509 when Henry VIII moved out of the Tower of London) but without the cross-belt.
The word "yeoman" also has an interesting history. During the early Medieval Period, yeomen were servants in a nobleman's household, and later the name was applied to farmers who owned their own land. (Presumably this came about because retired servants might be able to buy their own small-holdings.) Some say the name yeoman derived from "young man", but others suggest it was from "yew man", because archers made their bows from yew wood. Young men were generally required to practice archery, so that they could be fairly proficient if suddenly called upon for military defence.
@@vandatavna7681 This would be why the yeoman have to live with their families within the tower and they also have to pay 8.5% of their wages which was 3000 pounds per year- That's from their 36k pounds wages. They are considered to having to be independent and just working. They are also required to own a house outside for when they retire. Average age to become a yeoman is 42...and average retirement age is 62. So i guess you could call them servants.
The flags are the Regimental Colours of a regiment with their battle honours on them. Some of these regiments history go back several hundred years. The Regimental colours (flags) are given to the regiment by the "colonel in chief" of the regiment, this person is usually a member of the royal family, they are always lowered when a general salute is given. Other than a general salute, typically the regiment salutes the Colours/Flag as a sign of respect to the monarchy, as they represent the King/Queen. When a Regiment is disbanded the regiment colours are hung in the regiments chapel, which is located in the city/county where the regiment is from. Typically the regiment has what they call "Freedom of the City" and once a year the regiment exercises that right, to march thru the city with Bayonets fixed to their rifles. The infantry regiments in the UK with the exception of the guard regiments, are typically build up of men/woman from a particular area in England which is very different than any other country that i know of. I am originally from Yorkshire and served in the Prince of Wales's Regiment of Yorkshire (disbanded now). 99% of the regiment was guys from Yorkshire, which meant that when we go home we are all going to the same area. It also means that the guys/girls are very loyal to the regiment, as it represents where you were born/raised. I typically say i'm a Yorkshireman before i say i'm an Englishmen. Some people say the traditions are a bit long in the tooth, but as an ex soldier 9 years i personally have huge respect for the armed forces and the history.
In Australia, the Queens and Regimental Colour is only lowered to the ground in a Royal Salute. On a General Salute, the Ensigns let the Colours are loosed and flutter in the breeze.
Only the Royal Standard is never dipped. It takes precedence over all other flags in the UK including the national flag the Union Flag (Union Jack)
Charles was very mindful of the economic downturn in Western Countries and scaled down the Coronation to a fraction of what it was for QE2's Coronation. However, it was magnificent non the less. Nobody does Pageantry like the British.
We do so much MORE than pageantry .. I’m a staunch monarchist but more than that Im proud of my country as a whole..and it’s MANY achievements
@@Ionabrodie69 Agree! I don’t think the OC meant to be disrespectful though.
@@Ionabrodie69
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🙈🙈🙈 NEVER HAVE I WANTED MORE FOR A SO CALLED KING🤣🤣🤣 TO BE MADE TO V@NISH
@@cato9939 I bet you’re not even British , so get stuffed.. and if per chance you are.. still get stuffed..👍🇬🇧
@@cato9939 Why don't you start a political party and campaign for a Republic? If you gain a majority of seats in the Commons you can quickly abolish the Monarchy. Or you could join the Magic Circle, get yourself a magic wand and magic it away. Of course you wont do any of this, because you are not mature enough.
The men with the new cypher on their historical uniforms are retired soldiers who work as Yeoman Warders at the Tower of London. They live in the Tower, they act as guardians, they look after the ravens and guard the Crown jewels. Their main job is to act as tour guides and escort groups of tourists around the Tower of London.
The leopard skins are used by drummers to protect their uniforms from the larger drums. Originally there were African recruits who used real leopard skins (legs, head, paws etc) which caught on. Obviously, today, they are faux skins.
@Boogledigs they don't actually guard the crown jewels, as well as the most up to date alarms they are under armed guard
Yeoman Warders are not armed
and when as the Yeoman of the Guard they are on ceremonial duty they only carry
ornimental halberds
FunFact: 4,000 people were on parade all drawn to attention as the King and Queen joined their carriage. At the command from ONE man every soldier, sailor, Marine and aviator stepped off as one to the same drumbeat. It was done by some clever communications but even the bands played the same sequence of music from start to finish.
Forces from every Commonwealth nation were represented in the parade. Led by those Mounties of course.
An extraordinary feat for an extraordinary day.
Maybe because we live in the modern world? Costs much higher now and successive morons in power have spunked the money?
@killermigraine at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation the March past was made by 30,000. However at the time the British Military was just under a million strong. Nowadays the army is about 80,000 and the entire military under 200,000. It wouldn’t be sensible or possible to have that many personnel as part of the procession
It wasn't even a man - it was a recorded voice!
@@killermigraine1953 was not that many years after World War II ended and ALL of us allied/Commonwealth countries were counting our blessings and needing to stick close to each other. 70 years later life is totally different.
@@Pelicanus88The principle is the same!
I'm an elder American. So happy to see a young American enjoy a marching band! Thank you! I enjoy learning about history as well. Not such a good student till I was OUT of school. Oh, well. Love it now.
I'm an elder Brit
I like you yanks 😁
The Canadians led the entire procession...as for the flag on the ground, its only lowered like that in remembrance for the fallen and the Monarch as an act of deep respect
The Animal Aprons, or skins as they are known, originated a few hundred years ago, with the British Army being stationed in Africa and India, and needing an apron to protect the uniform. Animal skins were locally available and their use became standard practice.
The skins have now been phased out in favour of synthetics.
I'm pretty sure they are only used by the bass and tenor drummers, as their instruments are heavier than the normal snare drums. They may also provide some extra cushioning, which would be welcome!
What I was taught when I was in the NZ Army band is that it's from the days of African slaves who played drums wearing traditional animal skins. The origin of military bands is drum corps so it makes sense, but both theories make sense. Interestingly the army bands don't wear them, just the royal Marines and some pipes and drums
He's the Tenor Drummer
@@Richard500 Sua Tonante Tela 👍😊
@@bernardtaylor7043 Correct, only the Bass and Tenor drummers use the skins. The side drummers has a cloth guard that is tied against the left leg to protect the trouser leg from the drum
The flags are only lowered for the Monarch and the fallen
At exactly 7:05 in the video, on the far left of the screen, following the Gold Coach, is The Princess Royal (Princess Anne) on horseback wearing a ceremonial military uniform. She wears a black tunic, trousers with red stripe, a black bicorn hat (pointed front and back) with a tall red plume. Her role at the Coronation was that of Gold Stick in Waiting, the ceremonial "bodyguard", entrusted to ensure the King's safety with a gold-headed ebony staff.
Princess Anne is Colonel-in-Chief of 4 cavalry regiments (including the Royal Horse Guards/Dragoons, and the King's Royal Hussars, and two Canadian regiments). She is also Colonel of the Blues & Royals (Household Cavalry). Princess Anne (72) is an accomplished equestrian, winning gold and silver medals during the 1970s at the European Eventing Championships ... ... and several decades on, she is still greatly admired for her sense of duty in all her honorary military roles, and her continual hard work attending official events up and down the country, on behalf of the Sovereign.
This videographer was stationed about two-thirds of the way along the 1.2 mile-long military parade. Hence, you missed the 60 Commonwealth contingents, most infantry regiments, much of the RN, and all of the RAF sections. A special element was that all 14 bands began the same second with the same tune from one end of the parade to the other.
Nobody can deny, we do this the best!🇬🇧🏴
the best marching bit was the Navy when they returned to the Palace, the ranks had to be reduced to fit under an arch and they did it so smoothly with one step, perfection.
Absolutely beautifully done by all of the regiments involved on this historic day.
That was amazing - been trying to find a clip of it to show my husband for months because it was so cool
@@leighabbott105 If you type into youtube "Coronation Royal Navy Manoeuvre" there's a video of it.
Nice to have you back again. Thanks as always for the respect you show to our armed forces.
There’s more history there than the entire USA, GOD SAVE THE KING 🇬🇧🏴🏴🏴
Yes and they’ll never stop being jealous of that fact..😊🇬🇧🏴🏴🏴
I think a bit more respect to The USA in your comments would be nice after all they are our allies
Bruh disrespect 😂 @@Ionabrodie69
So what. What an A-hole thing to say. It's not a competition.
Traditionally, the bass drummer of Her Majesty's Royal Marine band wears an animal skin pelt while on parade. This tradition goes back to the 18th century, when drummers who joined from other countries wore animal skins to protect the uniform from wearing out because of the large, bulky drums.
The Flags are Actually Kings/ Queens colours they touch the ground for a Royal Salute.
Not sure if it happens for other salutes as I only did it for a Queens Guard.
I think the US is pretty unique with the traditions surrounding the flag, because as a nation it did not have a long shared history early on - so the symbols of state like the flag and anthem have been regarded much more highly than they would be in older nations
They have to make up faux traditions because they have no history..🙄🏴🇬🇧
The Yeomen Warders are the oldest of the royal guards, founded by King Henry VII in the late 15th century. You may have noticed another man dressed entirely in red - he was a Thames Waterman, another very ancient unit dating from the middle ages when travelling by river in a royal barge was quicker and cleaner than travelling overland.
Hard to compare US to British in this regard as over a thousand years of tradition behind the British military.
Don't forget the bandsmen are musicians and also train at medics and ambulance help in time of war, as well as going into battle .
Royal Marine Band personnel, male and female, undertake basic infantry soldier training at Commando Training Centre Lympstone before undertaking their musical training. While recruited for their musical ability, they must also be capable of military activity. Their wartime role is primarily logistics and medical support. A Royal Marine Band deployed to the Falklands War; their story is told in "The Band that Went To War".
From Roger
The group wearing red and gold tunics and carrying pikes are 'Beefeaters', who guard the Tower of London.
Technically "Yeoman of the Guard" all retired military.
@@BobBob-m1o Technically they are "Yeoman Warders" they are often retired special forces
The bearskin worn by the Guards Regiments were captured by the Grenadier Guards from the defeated French Imperial Guards of Napoleon's Army in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 and has become the ceremonial headgear of all the Guards Regiments including the Irish Guards formed in 1900 and the Welsh Guards formed in 1915 , the oldest Guards Regiments are the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and the Scots Guards.
The history of the bearskin is very interesting, and it's probably the most iconic and imposing headgear that any soldier wears, anywhere in the world! And the different Guards regiments can be distinguished by the colour of the plume in their bearskin, as well as the "layout" of their tunic buttons.
The Grenadier Guards have a white plume on the left side of the bearskin, and "single" buttons (i.e. equally spaced). The Coldstream Guards have a red plume on the right side, and pairs of buttons (i.e. spaced in sets of 2). The Scots Guards have no plume, and buttons in threes (spaced in sets of 3). The Irish Guards have a blue plume on the right side, and buttons in sets of four. The Welsh Guards have a white and green plume on the left side, and buttons in fives.
The plumes originally denoted their position in the line of battle. The Scots have no plume because they were in the centre, and those with plumes on the right or left denote their position to the right or left of the Scots Guards.
They also have different badges on collar and shoulder. And the rifle the Guards carry is the SA80 made by Heckler & Koch (the British Army's standard combat weapon).
@@vandatavna7681 The Collar badges of the Guards Regiments are as follows.
Grenadier Guards - Flaming Grenade
Coldstream Guards - Garter Star
Scots Guards - Thistle
Irish Guards - Shamrock
Welsh Guards - Leek
Bearskin caps in the British army first appeared in the 1740s, worn by the grenadiers of the 42nd Highland Regiment, (known familiarly as the 'Black Watch') and subsequently appeared in a small number of other regiments, worn usually by the drummers. This was on an unofficial regimental basis, funded by the individual colonels in command. In 1768, a Royal Warrant authorised bearskin caps for wear by grenadiers and drummers of all regiments of foot, and for all ranks of the three 'national' Fuzileer regiments (Royal, Scots and Welsh) and for the 2nd Royal North British Dragoons known also as 'The Scots Greys') The bearskin cap replaced the embroidered cloth 'mitre' cap worn previously by all those categories.
At the battle of Waterloo in 1815, the First Regiment of Foot Guards took part in the repulse of Napoleon's 'Garde Impériale' that sealed the defeat of Napoleon. Because the enemy troops they faced were wearing tall bearskin caps, it was thought they had been elite 'grenadiers of the Garde.' In fact, they weren't; they were another category known as 'Chasseurs,' but as a result the First Foot Guards were granted the honour of calling themselves the First Grenadier Regiment of Foot Guards, with all ranks authorised to wear the bearskin 'grenadier' cap as an honorary distinction.
In 1831 this privilege was extended to the Coldstream Regiment of Foot Guards and the Third Foot Guards (who were re-titled the 'Scots Fusilier Guards'). When the bearskin cap was abolished for all other regiments in 1844, it became the unique distinguishing feature of the Foot Guards as it remains today.
I don't know if anyone else mentioned it but the entire parade began to march at the same exact time : from Westminster Abbey all the way to Trafalgar Square. The King's sister, Anne, was riding in uniform immediately behind the Gold State Coach. They are quick marching as opposed the HM the Queen's funeral when they all slow marched. Go look at those videos.
Military parades may not be big, but you have 4th July parades, and parades in every state, county, city or town for various occasions. And of course the march girls, adept drills etc,so you have a lot of tradition in that area yourselves
let;s not forget . The King arrived at Westminster Abbey for his coronation in his Australian coach. God bless the King of Australia King Charles the Third.
One thing you didn't comment on here at the moment those flags touched the ground is the amazing precision that the formation had when they wheeled around to march around the two bends . Those on the outer edge could have easily 'overshot' and the guys with the flags would have had to step back, as it turned out they came very close.
Check it out: 12:36
The different regimental colours (flags) are slowly laid across the ground as that regiment's salute. Absolutely intentional. Each regiment has its band, hugely historical. The Scots regiments' Piper actually played at the front of the whole regiment - hugely brave.
The leopard skins are worn by tenor drummers and some bass drummers, it goes back to when african drummers in british army bands wore them to protect their skin and clothes from the heavy old drums.
The men marching in the uniforms with ruffs at their necks and carrying pikes are known as Yeoman Warders who guard the Tower of London. They are also known as Beefeaters
Led off by the Senior Service, the Royal Navy, the band of his majesty's Royal Marines, then the Royal Marines, followed by the Army and bringing up the rear, the junior service the Royal Air Force. 😀
The R.C.M.P. horses , mostly , were given to her majesty, Elizabeth, and the lead rider was on the firdt horse given to her by the Force.
King's Cypher (CIIIR) had to replace EIIR on over 7000 uniforms plus more between September and May, sewn on by hand I heard!!
5:18 The uniform is that of the Yeoman Warders of the Guard. Among other duties, they guard the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London.
They are all former Senior NCOs with an unblemished record of service.
The are also known as 'Beefeaters'.
8:10 The 'no flag touches the ground' thing is an American thing. As I understand it, the flag is symbolically rather more significant - flag as Head of State'. Our Head of State is driving past in a Coach & Four, so the protocol dictates that the flags dip. It's a King-thing.
It’s not a national flag those flags are the colours every battle thought by the units is on the flags
Yes that "vehicle" is the very gorgeous and most uncomfortable iconic Gold Coach. It's only gold leaf not solid gold. The flags touching the ground is a form of salute i think reserved for the Queens/Kings Guard. Their flag laws aren't the same as ours. For instance, when the King is in residence at any palace, including Westminster Palace, the royal standard is flown and when the Sovereign isn't in residence the Union Jack is flown. In the US marching pageantry isn't something as big as it is in GB because our military isn't on the world stage like the British Military is. In the US we don't have trooping the colours, we don't have changing of the guard at the white house, we don't have our military band playing at the white house. Whereas in London pretty much every day those things happen, except trooping the colours which happens every june since King George VI. here's a link to trooping the colours in 2022. ruclips.net/video/1zKpC2tv9cc/видео.html&ab_channel=Vinkath
The RCMP were actually riding horses they had gifted Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III over the years.
You need to find the BBC clip showing the Navy at the top of The Mall going from 12 abreast to 6 abreast in a few steps to go through the gates of Buckingham Palace. So clever!
Yep..that was fabulously done
I stumbled upon it by accident. My intentional searches did me no good and a lot of news stations there and in America certainly didn’t show it
It was Admiralty Arch. The arches where they went from 12 to 6 columns. They go through the arches onto the Mall & Buckingham Palace is at the other end of the Mall.
@@patriciarowland2124 I didn't realise they did it both ends of the Mall.(i'm in the UK)
Pagentry?? Ceremony! 😅 The guys in red and carrying pikes are Yeoman Guards who are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London but also Royal Bodyguards. They are all veterans who have served for a long time - also known as Beefeaters". Their official title is: The Yeomen Warders of His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and Members of the Sovereign's Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary'. The flags you refer to are Colours presented to the regiments by the Monarch and are fiercely guarded and revered. They touch the ground when a salute is performed, particularly a Royal Salute.
possibly the reason why the Americans don't march is because marching is from a long time before the USA existed it was a great way to get thousands of men to battle in formation with an added bonus of making that army very intimidating just imagine 80 000 men marching into battle in unison halting in unison and presenting arms in unison if you could put fear into the enemy before the fight even started that was half the battle won
Yeomen of the Guard in the tunics of Henry VIII's time. Canadian Mounties got their uniform design from British Guards regiments.
1:28 I think drummers wear the animal pelts to protect their uniform from being scuffed by their instruments when they are marching.
5:20 Cypher?
I agree with you on the different marching styles. The biggest difference between US and British marching is the arms. The British armed forces swing their arms to shoulder height whereas US armed forces only swing their arms as if walking.
The 4 Mounted Canadians shown at 5.40 into the video are special ! The Horses they are riding were gifted to the Queen by Canada many years ago :)
Without trying to be offensive, the British do not think of the Union Flag (oka Union Jack) as anything more than our country's symbol as with any other country except the US where they tend to think of it more reverential - almost to the point of worship. It's a piece of cloth that we use until it gets careworn, at which point we replace it with a new one. We permit it to touch the ground as a symbol of respect to our fallen and our sovereign. Should it ever touch the ground unintentionally, it's simply picked up again like you would pick up a handkerchief or a bundle of clothes, because it's no more than a piece of cloth! However, the flags you are referring to are actually known as "The Colours." Every regiment and their constituent battalions have their Colours, on which are emblazoned their individual Battle Honours that go back to the earliest days of the unit's formation. These are presented to the regiment or battalion as the case may be, by the sovereign (King, Queen or royal representative such as a Duke or Prince). The Colours are always saluted in any parade or ceremony, and are always treated with care and respect. Every soldier will know his regiment's Battle Honours, and he will be taught to uphold the honours won previously by his unit. It's called "esprit de corps," pride in his unit's traditions won in battle.
You say that US soldiers walk rather than march; I think differently, for I regard it as a "Creep-walk," because that's what it looks like. You might also note that our troops' trousers appear to hang above the boot rather than resting on the lace-up. The reason is simple: whether on the march or standing at attention, they always hang straight without any folding between the hem and the crotch - i.e. crisp and sharp.
It's also a matter of historical fact that the dress uniform of the US Marines, Navy and Air Force are copies of British forces, although the US tend to embellish them with other insignia or effects. You will rarely see a British soldier with more than nine or ten medals - every one of which he will have earned. Unfortunately, the US give medals like candy, so you will find that a US trooper whi has served for say five years and never been in a battle situation, will likely have more medals than British soldier who has served in several military campaigns and has twenty years service. He does not get anything that he has not earned throighout his dervice.
The union flag if it touches the ground doesn't just get pick up like a rag
@@davidedwards1988 Perhaps you have an eyesight problem, for nowhere in my comment did I refer to the Union Flag as a "rag." Perhaps your poor eyesight has also disbled any ability you have to spell and use capitals in proper names viz Union Jack or Union Flag. When you feel the need to criticise someone, first be sure you have your facts right, and secondly, have sufficient education to communicate properly. Trolling is not a meaningful way to put a point across - but that's exactly what you're doing, isn't it?
Well said 😊
Its okay I treat my car poorly because its just another bit of metal
@@kis4659 If that's your choice, go for it!
Glad you enjoyed it, we did.
An interesting point about the marching styles of europe and the US, its caused by the differences in militayr history, marching in cadence was introduced in the late 17th century for the purpose of manoevring close order bodies of troops around a battlefield, to arrive in decent order and at the same time, the troops within a unit had to move at the same speed, this was even more important in the eighteeth century when maintaining a line of battalions was crucial, so defined step length and cadence was trained in depth.
In the US the formal style battles of Europe were not the norm, upto the civil war, battles were much less formal and so the importance of cadenced step was less important - by the time of the civil war the advances in weapons had changed the need to manoever troops in close order so cadenced marching was less of a priority - those traditions stuck
Dipping the flag, is a salute and for Regimental Colours only given to the Soverign or the dead
Leapord skins on Drummers - Originally it was any animal fur or skin and simply there to protect the expensive uniforms from wear and tear from the drum, over time as drums ceased to have a military signalling role it became purely decorative and the leapord skin was chosen, presumably it was the cheapest and readily available
We have the same tradition in that dropping a flag to the ground would be very disrespectful. But purposefully dipping it is different.
Lowering/Dipping flags (/standards/banners/colours) is the highest form of salute, it is a mark of deference and respect. Think of it as the equivalent of presenting arms in ceremonial rifle or sword drill.
It is moved out in a particularly flourished way to show off the main design of the flag (which generally for a regiment's standard will be their battle honours). In the drill manuals, there are also variations of it depending on local conditions (wet and muddy ground, strong winds etc.).
It can also be done on the march, where the bearer will bring it out 90 degrees perpendicular. Most countries have traditions like this, which is obvious for example at the Parade of Nations in the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic Games where pretty much every country dips their flags to salute the host government, but the US team never does.
I understand that in the US you do sometimes dip flags, but only to 45 degrees and never the national flag. We just don't hold our national flag to that level of deference. Full Royal Salutes, as they are called, are only given in two situations: to the King (and his representatives, or to foreign Heads of State), or to give respect to the fallen at the Cenotaph/on Remembrance Day.
The equivalent tradition on ships at Sea to salute is to bring the flag down quickly to half-mast (half-staff) and then quickly back up again. I think the American tradition is to return those salutes if rendered to them, but not to initiate them, but I might be wrong on that.
This may not be strictly accurate but as a British child at school in UK 1950s, we were taught that the Stars and Stripes should never touch the ground. This is because during the War of Independence, at a very important battle, The British Fleet was watching for the Stars and Stripes to be hauled down, which would be a sign of surrender. Someone said something like
That flag will NEVER be lowered...... This is memory of a now 78 yearold woman who taught stuff about all countiries at an early age and has benefitted from a good state school education. I gather that sort of history is not taught now.......
I'd be glad to know if this is true and if any British person remebers the same lessons.... Thanks
Whilst I don't remember as many details as you have described, I always remember being taught in history lessons that the US never let the stars and stripes touch the ground because "that flag will never be lowered". I am a bit younger than you (69).
"Oh say, can you see...?
Ensigns and Colours (flags) lying on the ground very important - their specific regiments are saluting the monarch by laying them slowing down as they past. Would miss that in the States!!
Thank you. I was wondering about that.
You asked about the tiger and leopard skins worn over the bass drummers uniform. These started to be worn by HM Royal Marines back in the 18th century to protect uniforms. They have only been taken from dead animals and are now replaced by synthetic and to be phased out as not popular with millennial culture.
The 'soldiers" who you can see at the start (immediately after the sailors step off) are actually Royal Marines. As part of the Royal Navy they marched in the seventh group, which was closest to the King bar the Household Division (the Foot Guards and Household Cavalry, who are his bodyguard), with the rest of the Army, RAF and Commonwealth troops in the first six groups because they have lower precedence that the Navy, which is the senior service.
It is said that the Royal Marines have a reputation for being among the best sniper units in the world. There is a sniper section in each of the recce troops of 40, 42 and 45 Commando.
You should watch the Gurkhas March and the French Foreign Legion, totally different but both very classy.
Although I'm not a Brit I have to freely admit that when the Brits DO push that ceremonial button there's no-one who can come close to them. It's them explaining that a particular ceremony is 600 or 400 years old that's when the head starts to spin.
The whole procession hasn't been show, the have missed out the Royal Air Force, the Commonwealth troops and other army regiments.
Those uniforms are worn by tower wardens, often known as beefeaters and they guard castles, particularly those open to the public. One of their tasks is to lead guided tours for the public.
the british legion lower the flags for the king, its like the veterans association in usa
A unit/regiment's colour is only ever dipped (lowered to the ground) for royalty.
Standards are lowered for any salute.
In with the Yeomen of the Guard (Beefeaters) there was also the Kings Water Boatman
As your military yourself you might like watching The Royal Marines Band Beating THe Retreat at Horse Guards Parade 2022.
Our slow march is special
the stylized monogram is called a cypher.
photography is just at front of crowds lining the Coronation route, over the crowd control railings, Guardsmen and Police are on the military side of the rails, lining the route...which can take 80 mins to pass you!
Great to have you back again. Good luck with your studies
😮Here in Canada the leopard like robes are usually worn by drummers the purpose is to protect their uniforms from marks or wear which can be caused by the drums rubbjng on the fabric of the uniforms.
Those red uniforms you didn't know what the significance was, those men are The Yeoman of the Guard and they are based at th Tower of London.
The leopard skin is an apron to protect the uniform.
🇬🇧🏴🇬🇧🌺
They are called beefeaters from the Tower of London.
They are called Yeomen Warders, Beefeaters, is a nickname
You would just love the very end of the BBC coverage....the Royal Salute with every member of the armed forces lined up in the back garden of Buckingham Palace and giving Three Cheers (amazing to watch). Try to find it.
Made me cry..and then the pipes kicked in and I got goosebumps
There where several military press officers from most units, including the cadets hence the position, it should also be noted the pageantry of those guarding the procession way both the military and the police, police facing out and military in.