The Historic Alliance: British and French Soldiers Unite for Changing of the Guard Ceremony

🤝Soldiers from the French Republican Guard are participating in the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London, symbolizing the strong alliance between Britain and France.

🎉This marks the 120th anniversary of friendly relations between Britain and France, highlighting the longstanding history of cooperation between the two nations.

🇫🇷The Republican Guard was formed in France after the country became a republic, while Britain remains a monarchy. The presence of French soldiers in a British ceremonial event is a significant testament to the diplomatic ties between the two countries.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑The Changing of the Guard ceremony will feature soldiers from both the French Republican Guard and Britain's Household Division, showcasing the unique traditions and regalia of each military.

⚔️The iconic bear-skin hats worn by the British foot guards have a historical link to the Battle of Waterloo, where British forces defeated Napoleon's armies and looted the hats from the fallen French Imperial Guard.

Why are French soldiers participating in the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London?

—French soldiers are participating in the ceremony to commemorate the 120th anniversary of friendly relations between Britain and France. This symbolic gesture highlights the growing alliance and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

What is the significance of the French Republican Guard?

—The Republican Guard was formed in France after the country became a republic. Their presence in a British ceremonial event represents the unique relationship between the two nations, with France being a republic and Britain remaining a monarchy.

What is the history behind the bear-skin hats worn by the British foot guards?

—The bear-skin hats worn by the British foot guards have a historical link to the Battle of Waterloo. After the British forces defeated Napoleon's armies in 1815, the foot guards looted the hats from the fallen French Imperial Guard, adopting them as a symbol of their victory.

Are the Changing of the Guard ceremonies open to the public?

—Yes, the Changing of the Guard ceremonies are open to the public. These ceremonies, held at Buckingham Palace and other locations, allow visitors to witness the traditional and ceremonial aspects of the British military.

What other military units will be participating in the Changing of the Guard ceremony?

—In addition to the French Republican Guard, the Changing of the Guard ceremony will feature soldiers from Britain's Household Division, including the foot guards (Irish, Scots, Welsh, Coldstream, and Grenadier guards).

00:07Soldiers from the French Republican Guard are training for the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London.

01:47The bear-skin hats worn by the British foot guards have a historical link to the Battle of Waterloo.

02:30The Changing of the Guard ceremony showcases the growing alliance between Britain and France.

02:44The ceremony symbolizes the 120th anniversary of friendly relations between the two nations.