‘Muster’ – not ‘mustard’.
We gave you the regal heads up as to what the Queen (long live ‘er!) is planning to do to celebrate her impressively long sixty year reign this yeat – and it’s quite a bit. One of the main parts of the celebration is what’s known as ‘The Armed Forces’ Parade and Muster’. Far from it being a hot condiment-based ceremony, it’s a march through the Royal Berkshire town of Windsor and show put on by service people from around the UK just for Queen Elizabeth II to thank her for her six decades of service.
So what’s happening?
Taking place on Saturday 19th May, the Parade and Muster sees almost 3,000 army, navy and air force personnel gather together to parade through the grounds of Windsor Castle in front of Her Majesty and her gaffe-prone hubby, Prince Philip of Greece. The muster part will then take place in front of a further 3,000 people (all family members of servicemen and women). The do ends with a stunning flypast of modern and historic aircraft, all of which will have been active during QE2′s reign.
Tradition
The Jubilee Parade and Muster isn’t a new invention. In fact, it’s a tradition that goes way, way back. Similar events were held to cheer on the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, the Silver Jubilee of King George V, and the Silver and Golden Jubilees of the present Queen.
Respect
The event will mark the very first time that large numbers of all three of the defence services have got together for the Queen. It’s proof of the Armed Forces and current throne-sitter’s harmonious and respect-led relationship. Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir David Richards said of the day:
“Her Majesty The Queen’s support and encouragement over the years has created a very special bond between our monarch and her forces. That link is felt by all those who have the privilege to wear Her Majesty’s uniform both in the UK and on many varied operations overseas.”
“The Parade and Muster will truly be a day to remember. It is an opportunity to highlight the unique relationship The Queen has with the men and women of the Armed Forces and of the role she fills in our lives.”
Watch proceedings at home
If you can’t get down to Windsor to watch the parade from afar, you can pay your respects and watch all the goings-on on TV – the BBC are televising the entire show.
Sound tempting? Let us know if you’re planning on watching or how you plan to spend the jubilee weekend in the comments section below…
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