Colonel Prince of Wales Joins 1st Battalion Live-Fire Training: Welsh Guards Restore Specialised Combat Capabilities
The heir to the throne, the Prince of Wales, who is a colonel in the Welsh Guards, joined the 1st Battalion on Salisbury Plain as part of the exercise, according to the Official Account of the Prince and Princess of Wales. The Prince was expected to observe the live-fire demonstration, but decided to join himself.
‘After two wonderful years of participating in historic ceremonies, the Welsh Guards have returned to their vital operational roles. Their special platoons have been training today, demonstrating live fire and the use of drones to enhance their capabilities,’ said Prince William.
The battalion has recently been on ceremonial duty and has spent the last two years playing a role in events such as the funeral of Elizabeth II, the Coronation and the Colour. It has also conducted overseas operations in the Falkland Islands and Oman
‘This training is very important as the Welsh Guards rebuild their special forces capability. I am proud to see their dedication and professionalism in action,’ said the Heir to the throne.
The Prince of Wales was also given a binocular tour of the firing range and inspected weapons, including Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems.
The 1st Battalion is now transitioning back to the field army, and support personnel are receiving updates on how to use the various weapon systems to ensure ‘safety, competence and knowledge’.
Prince William completed his own military training when he joined Sandhurst after graduating from university in 2005 for a 44-week officer cadet course.
He was commissioned as an officer in the British Army in December 2006 and joined the Household Cavalry, the Blue and the Royal Troops as a second lieutenant, and was promoted to lieutenant a year later. He also served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Royal Navy in 2008, where he trained in helicopter and fixed-wing piloting, coastal training and navigation.
