When we first started this blog, we had Friday Q&A, where we would answer readers' questions. That eventually ended as people were just asking me questions on Twitter all the time. And it seemed easiest to just answer them there.
We have decided to resume our Q&As, as I often get asked the same questions again and again on social media. And this gives me a chance to give a longer, more detailed answer.
Submit your questions. We aren't able to answer everyone's questions but from time to time will try to pick one that is asked a lot, or is particularly interesting, or relevant.
Q1: Why did some Indian guy represent King Charles at the Sandhurst Parade? Isn’t it always a member of the Royal Family who does it each year?
The Sovereign's Parade takes place to mark the graduation of of the Commissioning Course for Regular Army officers. There are actually 3 parades each year as there are 3 courses: (January-December, May-March, and September-August).
The Monarch is represented by someone at each of the 3 parades. Often a member of the British Royal Family will represent the Monarch at one of the 3 parades each year. The other times the Monarch is represented by a member of senior British military/government, or a senior member of a Foreign Military.
Foreign Military personnel are involved in the graduation as the Academy is opened up to international students from foreign militaries. It is one of the ways the UK maintains good relationships with it's military allies.
Last year (2022), the Representatives of the Monarch were General James McConville, USA Chief of Army Staff; Qamar Javed Bajwa, Pakistan Chief of Army Staff; and the Duke of Gloucester.
You can find a list of reviewing officers over the years here.
Q2: Do you think King Charles or Prince William will host a reception for the Women's World Cup team at the Palace? I know they didn't win, but they did place 2nd.
I would expect Prince William, as president of England's Football Association, will have some sort of engagement with the team to celebrate their 2nd place. It might not be a reception at the palace. But he might visit them.
Why did some Indian guy represent King Charles at the Sandhurst Parade? Isn’t it always a member of the Royal Family who does it each year?
ReplyDeleteDo you think King Charles or Prince William will host a reception for the Women's World Cup team at the Palace? I know they didn't win, but they did place 2nd.
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