On March 17th, the Irish celebrate their national saint and patron saint St. Patrick every year. Prince William (40) and his wife Princess Kate (41) pay a visit to the Irish Guards every year for this occasion. Kate came to the Mons Barracks in Aldershot, Hampshire in a new role this time.
She has held the honorary title of Colonel in the 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards since December 2022, replacing her husband who previously held the post. “I really couldn’t be prouder to be standing here in front of you today,” she said in her speech, according to the British Daily Mail. “It is truly a true honor to be your Colonel. I am here to listen to you and to support you in everything you do – it is a responsibility I do not take lightly.”
A few days ago Kate had attended a simulated rescue operation by the Irish Guards at a military training area in wintry weather. “All I saw was enthusiasm, pride and incredible dedication,” she said, looking back on the experience. She also thanked her predecessor in office: “I would like to thank Colonel William. He has always spoken of his great pride in this regiment. I know that he will continue to support us all in our work.”
Contrary to the dreary weather, the princess shone in a turquoise Catherine Walker coat and combined it with a matching fascinator with ruffles and pointed pumps in the same color. A shamrock brooch completed the look.
At the ceremony, as per tradition, Kate also handed out shamrocks to members of the regiment. One soldier also had the Guards mascot named Turlough Mor, also known as Seamus, at his side. The Irish wolfhound wore a red cape for the occasion and stood still as the princess also attached a bouquet of shamrocks to his collar. Together with her husband, Kate couldn’t miss another item on the program: the couple were given a pint of Guinness and tasted the famous Irish beer, which originated in Dublin.
