Trooping the Colour

The Queen has been the figure of unity in Great Britain.

The monarchy is the heart and core of the country's political system. 76% of the population are still in favour of the monarchy after the Queen. The British love and revere the royal family.

Yesterday was the "Trooping the Colour" in honour of the Queen's 83rd birthday. It is a custom of over 200 years old where members of the royal family and the public gather to celebrate this day.

The flag indicating the Queen is in

Initially I thought calling it Trooping the Colour was quite a misnomer because it didn't quite describe about the Queen or her birthday or anything near at all. It would have sounded much better as "The Queen's Birthday Parade"; simple and straightforward.

However, Trooping the Colour was never meant to be a celebration of the Queen's birthday. Based on history, it was an enactment of the traditional preparations for battle when the colours, or flags, were ''trooped'' down the ranks so that they would be seen and recognised by the soldiers. Hence, "Trooping the Colour". But there are no more battles to be fought in modern times, so this is now celebrated as the Queen's birthday.

I watched two-thirds of the pageantry on TV and walked over to Buckingham Palace towards the close of the event to see it live. I knew there would be a fly-past of vintage and modern fighters based on last year's experience.

Fly-past at Buckingham Palace

It was very crowded at St James' Park, a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace. When I arrived facing the palace, I just made it to catch a glimpse of the Queen. She was about to leave the Palace Gate and make her way into the building.

Queen making her way into the Palace after the final salute

Then she appeared from the balcony with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. They greeted the public and were reciprocated with a loud cheer and applause from us.


Princes Charles, William and Harry joined in from behind. Camilla was beside Prince Charles. More members of the royal family joined in.

I was really excited because this was the first time I've come so near and meet so many members of the royal family in one place. It was also the first time I met Princess Anne and the younger Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice. I am glad I had my camera with me at the time and managed to get many close-up shots.

Princes Charles, William and Harry joined in

Members of the royal family

The event closed with the royal bands playing the national anthem "God save the Queen".