The Queen's Birthday Parade 2005

The Kings Troop R.A.

The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery is stationed in St John's Wood, London. Its duties - as part of the Household Troops - include the firing of Royal Salutes in Hyde Park on Royal Anniversaries and State Occasions, and providing a gun carriage and team of black horses for State and Military funerals. It also takes its part on other ceremonial occasions such as Remembrance Sunday, the Lord Mayor's Show and the Queen's Birthday Parade.

In addition the Troop performs the duties of the Queen's Life Guard at Whitehall for one month each year. Before World War II, a succession of Horse Artillery Batteries were stationed in London. The last was mechanised in 1939 and it was His Majesty King George VI's express wish that, after the war, a Troop of Royal Horse Artillery, mounted and dressed in the traditional manner, should once more be seen taking part in the great ceremonies of State.

On October 24th 1947 His Majesty inspected the then Riding Troop and said that he wished it to be known as His Troop, and Her Majesty has graciously decided that this title shall continue in her reign in recognition of her father's special interest in the Troop.

When on parade with its guns the King's Troop takes precedence over all other Regiments and has the honour of parading on the right of the line.

How did I miss this one?. What a great picture.
Good info too Droney