Most people only have one birthday. Of course, the King is an exception.
Trooping of the Colour is an annual June ceremony which marks the British monarch’s official birthday.
The grand military procession is a tradition dating back to the 17th century.
Historically each regiment of the British Army wore different ‘colours’ on their uniforms, and these symbols were a crucial rallying point to prevent them from getting separated on the battlefield.
Soldiers would regularly practise displaying, or trooping, their colours.
Now in the age of modern technology and warfare, the practise is largely ceremonial.
The monarch’s personal bodyguards march, ride horses and perform military music.
But it serves as a different kind of rallying point, as thousands gather each year to catch a glimpse of King Charles III.
Listen to the below report for reaction to this year’s event.
Featured image credit: Paul Fiedler via Unsplash.
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