The transfer of the Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles from His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall took place in a short ceremony at Windsor Castle and Highgrove House, earlier today, Wednesday 22nd July.
While The Duke of Edinburgh has been Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles since its formation in 2007, His Royal Highness’ connection stretches back further, as he has served as Colonel-in-Chief of successive Regiments which now make up The Rifles since 1953. The Duchess of Cornwall was appointed Royal Colonel of 4th Battalion The Rifles in 2007.
The ceremony began at Windsor Castle where four Buglers, of The Band and Bugles of The Rifles, will sound The Rifles Assembly call upon the arrival of The Duke of Edinburgh. The ceremony continued at Highgrove House, where the arrival of The Duchess of Cornwall was marked by four Buglers of The Band and Bugles of The Rifles sounding The Rifles Assembly. Her Royal Highness was addressed by The Rifles’ Colonel Commandant, General Sir Patrick Sanders, who welcomed The Duchess as the new Colonel-in-Chief.
The Duchess has personal links to military organisations connected to her father, Major Bruce Shand, who was awarded two Military Crosses. Two Battalions of The Rifles form part of the celebrated 7th Infantry Brigade, otherwise known as the Desert Rats, with whom Major Shand served, and The Duchess is Patron of The Desert Rats Association.
Images: Crown Copyright 2020.