Monarch presents New Colours to four Royal Marines Commando units in a historic first
King Charles III has marked a historic moment at Windsor Castle by presenting New Colours to four Commando Royal Marines units during a significant military ceremony.
Acting in his role as Captain General of the Royal Marines, the King presented New Colours to 40, 42, 43 and 45 Commando Royal Marines.
According to Buckingham Palace, the event was notable for two reasons. It marked the first time a reigning monarch, serving as Captain General of the Royal Marines, has presented New Colours at Windsor Castle. It was also the first occasion on which four Commando units received new Colours at the same ceremony.
Buckingham Palace described the occasion as a historically significant event, highlighting the importance of the ceremonial flags to the Royal Marines.
Traditionally, Colours served as rallying points for troops during battle. Today, they remain powerful symbols of a unit’s heritage, achievements and identity. Crafted from silk damask and decorated with gold-thread embroidery, the Colours feature battle honours and royal cyphers representing the units' distinguished service.
Although Colours are no longer carried into battle, they continue to accompany Commando units during deployments and official occasions. Before entering service, they must first be consecrated.
During the ceremony, the King also paid tribute to those affected by a recent Royal Navy helicopter crash.
Expressing his sadness, the monarch said he was deeply shocked by the tragedy. As a former pilot with 845 Naval Air Squadron, he reflected on the loss and offered his condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those involved.
King Charles said the service of those affected is held in the highest regard and assured their loved ones that they remain in the thoughts and prayers of the nation.
