Royal Regiment of Fusiliers marks St George's Day with Drumhead ceremony

Troops from the 1st Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers have held a Drumhead parade to mark St George's Day at their home base in Tidworth, Wiltshire.

The ceremony is a traditional military religious service where drums are used in the field or during times of conflict to create a makeshift altar, as well as recognising the day of their formation and showcasing their special affiliation with St George, the patron saint of England.

The regiment was formed on 23 April 1968, the same day nearly 2,000 years after St George was executed for his Christian beliefs.

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A silver metal depiction of the martyr slaying the dragon is displayed on the regiment's cap badge, highlighting the strong connection between the regiment and St George.

On display during the service were the Regimental Colours, led by the Battalion Chaplain, Reverend Hull, and accompanied by 1st Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Corps of Drums.

The military musicians played the British Grenadiers quick march and Blaydon Races - a folk song from the North East of England.

In a long-established tradition, each fusilier wore a red and white rose on their headdress, a reminder of the Regiment's Battle Honours and their participation in the Battle of Minden during the Seven Years' War in 1759. 

Also known as the Battle of Roses, it echoes the soldiers who advanced through the hedgerows toward the enemy and decorated their caps with the emblem of England.

Lieutenant Colonel James Fern, 1st Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Commanding Officer, said it is rare they get to mark the day on the actual date due to operations, making the ceremony "very special". 

"We have the honour of parading our third colour, the Wilhelmstahl Colour, which will be carried by the youngest drummer," he said

"In addition to the parade, this morning marks the conclusion of our inter-company competition featuring the World's Strongest Fusilier event. 

"The winning company will be crowned St George's Company and will have the privilege of wearing a patch of the regimental flag for the next year."

Proceedings started at dawn, with junior soldiers woken by officers and senior NCOs, who served the Gunfire – tea laced with rum. 

This was followed by an afternoon of medieval-themed fun, which included a hog roast lunch, axe throwing, archery, bicycle jousting and chariot racing.

Sergeant Aveuta Tuila, a Fijian who has served for with the regiment for 22 years, said celebrating the day has been "fantastic but also a time to reflect and remember our contributions in conflicts and battle honours".

"I wasn't aware of England’s patron Saint until I started my military basic training," he said.

"It's a family orientated battalion, full of tradition and history and I'm now part of that inclusive fusilier family. 

"The soldiers of the Fusiliers are very proud of their history - and rightfully so."