Laying up ceremony at Royals' favourite Scottish church
Crathie Kirk near Balmoral Castle witnessed an important and solemn day recently for The Royal Marines of Arbroath-based 45 Commando.
Current serving Royal Marines, and several veterans from The Highland and Grampian Branch of The Royal Marines Association, attended The Royal Family’s favourite Highland Church at Crathie for a poignant service for the laying down of the Queen’s colours.
Regiments traditionally lay up their colours following the death of the Sovereign, and although it is four years since the death of Queen Elizabeth II, it is not uncommon for units to continue to use their colours well into a new reign.
The service was organised by Lt Colonel Barry Barnwell OBE RM and Ed Wilson RM, chairman of the Highland Branch (RMA).
In attendance were 45 Commando commanding officer Lt Col Chris Webber MBE RM and his WO1 RSM Rudi Taylor RM.
The service was conducted jointly by 45 Cdo padre Rev Russel Fralick and Rev Kenneth MacKenzie DL, minister of Crathie Kirk.
Two Royal Marines Association standards were on parade; John Snedden carried the Grampian standard, while Alastair Macgillery carried The Highland Branch Standard. A wonderful programme of music was performed by members of The Royal Marine band from Rosyth.
Also in attendance were General Martin Smith (President of RMA Scotland) and The Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, Nick Champion MBE