Posted on November 25, 2011 by Phillip Lee

More than 190 cadets become officers at the Sandhurst Royal Military Academy ceremony every year. Proud families and friends gather at the “Sovereign’s Parade” to see their loved ones complete their officer training. The event is marked by an inspection of the troops by a member of the Royal Family, traditionally the Queen or her representative. During the ceremony, the Sword of Honour, the Overseas Sword and the Queen’s Medal are awarded to the top Officer Cadets.  It is a fantastic event in Sandhurst where we celebrate the commissioning of our British officers.

Receiving the Queen’s Commission is something special. The Queen is the figurehead of the nation and her attendance to the ceremony acts as a symbol of the respect and admiration with which the nation holds our armed forces. The Royal family has a longstanding tradition of mutual respect and honours Officer Cadets for their loyalty, courage and good conduct. It is the strong bond between the responsibilities of an Armed Force officer and our Nation. What makes this award particularly special is that the Queen gives her full trust that our Nation will be supported and protected by our Troops.

The “Sovereign’s Parade” is a celebration of the close relationship with which our armed forces and royal family hold each other. The Royal family has a long tradition of serving in the Armed Forces. As we know the Queen herself joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service in 1945, becoming the first female member of the Royal Family to be active member of this service. More recently, Prince William served as a regimental officer in the British Army before undertaking attachments to The Royal Air Force and The Royal Navy. And, Prince Harry is also currently focusing on his military career as a member of The Household Cavalry and served in Afghanistan.

I am proud that as a nation we have a strong armed force, which protects and represents our society and country not only nationally but also internationally. The officers commissioned to the Armed Forces represent an excellent achievement and embody the leadership our country needs. That is why I am very proud to be attending the Sovereign’s Parade that is to be held at the end of this week in Sandhurst. I am privileged to have the Sandhurst Royal Military Academy within the boundaries of my constituency.