All eyes on the drill square before eyes of a nation turn to the Cenotaph for Remembrance Sunday
Royal Marines and Royal Navy personnel have been braving the bitterly cold parade square of HMS Excellent as they prepare for Remembrance Sunday.
In total, there will be 110 members of the Armed Forces taking part in the parade, including personnel from the Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service and Royal Fleet Auxiliary, along with musicians from the Royal Marines Band Service.
But before taking centre stage at the Cenotaph in London, there was a little last-minute drill practice – all under the watchful gaze of Warrant Officer Glynn Moffett, State Ceremonial Training Officer.
"I'm really pleased with how the Naval Ceremony of Guard have come together," he told BFBS Forces News.
"We've been together now for four weeks' worth of training, where we've delivered the state opening of the Welsh Parliament and the state visit in Windsor.
"So this is now bringing everybody together for probably the most significant part of what we're here to do, which is Remembrance Weekend."
'Long, hard days – but worth it'
Personnel from ships, squadrons and units across the Royal Navy have come together at the naval base on Whale Island for the training.
Able Rate Lenny Crockford admitted that while he's had "very hard days and very long days", he's remaining positive, adding: "It's all going to be good in the end.
"I'm going to show respect for those who have fallen," he said.
Able Rate Eva James echoed similar sentiments, adding: "Long days, but at the same time really exciting because you get to stand up and show the respect for the people that fought for our country."
For the Royal Marines Band Service buglers, every instrument and note must be polished and refined ahead of the parade in Whitehall.
Having rehearsed The Last Post, it will be performed immediately following the two-minute silence at 11:00 during Remembrance Sunday on 8 November and Armistice Day commemorations on 11 November.
With additional reporting by Tim Cooper.








