The Duke of Cambridge, Colonel of the Irish Guards, was accompanied by the Duchess of Cambridge, on a visit to the 1st Battalion Irish Guards for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Mons Barracks in Aldershot on March 17th. The Duke has attended the Parade every year since becoming Colonel in 2011, except for the last two years due to the pandemic.
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in the full Irish Guards official photo! #StPatricksDay pic.twitter.com/sgeYjt0m6l
— Belle (@RoyallyBelle_) March 17, 2022
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in the full Irish Guards official photo! #StPatricksDay pic.twitter.com/sgeYjt0m6l
— Belle (@RoyallyBelle_) March 17, 2022Embed from Getty Images
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge watched 350 soldiers march onto the Mons Square at Cavalry Barracks led by their mascot, the Irish Wolfhound Domhnall, before the Duchess presented shamrocks to Officers and Warrant Officers, who in turn issued it along the ranks. Later, they met members of the Regiment before sitting for official Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess photographs, and afterwards met soldiers and their families. Finally, the Duke and Duchess visited the junior ranks dining hall where the Senior Guardsman in the battalion proposed a toast to Their Royal Highnesses, and thanked the Duchess for presenting the gift of shamrock.
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The Duke of Cambridge wore the Irish Guards black frock coat with his Star of the Order of the Garter. The Duchess of Cambridge wore a Laura Green London coat and a Lock & Co hat with the Cartier Irish Guards Shamrock Brooch and her emerald and diamond Earrings.
I find that the Irish Guards black frock coat uniform is one of the most excellent uniforms ever! Prince William looks absolutely smashing in it! I have no idea if the Duchess is wearing her usual coat, but even if she isn’t, I can tell she’s making a special effort to sort of have a “uniform” for the event. Her husband has his uniform and it looks like she has hers, which is perfect for the occasion! It’s heartening to see the usual events and ceremonies take place in person once again. “May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door!” Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!