Its interesting to note that the tassels on the yeoman pikes (or any polearms like halberds for that matter) are not intended to be ornamental or ceremonial but instead are a practical part of the weapon itself. The tassels are put on pikes to absorb blood thus preventing the polearm from becoming greasy and slipping in combat almost like a mop.
The tassels like their Chinese spear counterparts, also serve to when fencing with the spear and it also allows the user to see where his own spear point is located. Hence, bright colours for the tassel.
Proud to have served in the Blues and Royals 👍🏻 great content Mr Felton as always Charles the Second formed the Life Guards when he rode from Restoration house in Rochester Kent to be reinstated as King of England
Good for you! All this ceremonial stuff is just lovely. The one thing I wish the did differently are the guns of the Scots Guards, something "period" would look nicer. =)
@@skwalka6372 I think their assault rifles are meant to be used against 21th century attackers, not against the musqueteers of Richelieu. If the Scots Guards were armed with arquebuses or musquets... Well, perhaps they would not be on pair with any holder of automatic weapons. Think about the assassins at Paris 2015 with their Kalashnikovs.
The household cavalry regiment has beautiful uniforms. I love the pomp in ceremony that they have in the United Kingdom. I am saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. God save the King
The ceremony eventually becomes pointless and empty after a point. Just tradition for traditions sake. The pudding spinner holding the stick of snakes in his left hand because it looks fancy. Have him give 4 whistles and a foot stomp. Oh look isn't it different. Fuck the monarchs and their simps.
Appreciate the disctinction between the Yeoman and the Yeoman Warders, they often get confused with each other. Interesting historical note, I have heard we don't know more about the Yeoman of the Guard because their records were burned at one point.
Regardless what someone may feel about the monarchy, I really like hearing about the history behind the uniforms and the origins of the soldiers who wear them.
I don't have a problem with the monarchy at all, but it doesn't really affect me, I'm not British. IMO it is a part of their national identity with a rich history some of it good, some bad just like any nations past. But as I have read there are those who wish to see it go away as a relic of the past.
@@garrysekelli6776 I think they were. I'm pretty sure that I watched a show that said reason they were called that was because while under service to the King they were given extra portions of beef as a perk.
My father (Royal Canadian Artillery) who served on the front lines in WW2 guarded Buck Pal in 1946. He told me all about the marching. My father-in-law was in the Irish Guards and also guarded Buck Pal around the same time. Interesting video.
Correction: "Partisan" is the name of the specific polearm head they are carrying. Not the sword or the dagger. The symmetrical lance/pike head in the pictures you provided is the "Partisan". Always love your content. Kind regards.
Yes MARK gets a lot of obvious details wrong in a lot of his videos; enough to question his knowledge and expertise in developing his not so accurate information from the slanted British perspective. Did Hitler get away to Argentina? Yes he did. Flying saucers in ANTARCTICA during Byrd? Oh yes indeed. Submarine pens under the Antarctica ice? Yes indeed. Forestall murdered? Yes indeed. Shall we go on for another half hour? Was Amelia's plane destroyed by American marines? Yes indeed....
This is an excellent idea for a series, I certainly hope to that you will make a video about each and every one of the royal bodyguard units for the British Monarchy.
Thank you Mark. There were very many interesting uniforms and costumes on display a few days ago in the city of London when the new monarch was proclaimed.
I think what fascinates and gives me faith and respect in the UK is the fact that all ceremonial guards are true to their heritage, they are the active combat forces. This is how you do things.
Mr. Felton, I am a veteran of the US Army’s 20th Infantry Regiment during OIF and OEF and would love to see you make a video of their exploits during WW2. They served in the Pacific theatre and it seems their sacrifices have been forgotten.
Mark, the numbers of guard organizations and their duties mind boggling to us former colonials. Interesting to know that most members of the guards are serving soldiers! As usual, another informative video. 😊
The Foot Guards regiments rotate through deployment, training, leave and palace duties with the addition of 2 rifles and the Gurkhas having had a turn in the last few years.
You would have seen quite a show of them during the Queen's Funeral! As Mark has shown already, we have the Yeoman Warders and the Yeoman of the Guard (both made up of UK ex-military veterans). We also have the Honourable Corp of Gentlemen-at-Arms (who are ex-military officers) and the Royal Company of Archers (the Scottish ceremonial guard, once traditionally made up of royalist aristocrats). These all make up the ceremonial group known as the Sovereign's Bodyguard. Then there's the serving military guards, so the Household Division, making up the 5 Footguards (the stereotypical King's Guards) and 2 Calvary Regiments. In practice, these are all serving Army regiments. Then there's the King's Colour Squadron of the Royal Air Force who are often invited to guard the Royal Palaces in place of the Household Division (although ceremonially, they guard the 'Colours', rather than the King himself). The Royal Marines, though not officially a guard unit, often represent the Royal Navy as the King/Queen's ceremonial guards as well. Finally, there's Royalty and Specialist Protection, who are not ceremonial at all but rather the police protection (and are the closest thing to literal bodyguards for the Royal Family).
I'm absolutely certain Mark Felton must already know this, but he abbreviated the story about them saving king James from the gunpowder quite a lot. They weren't just patrolling, they were actively searching for something as the plot to blew up the king and parliament had got so many people involved that eventually someone leaked that something was going to happen.
It was an old tradition to burn people at the stake, along with countless other traditions but luckily we came to our senses. Maybe it's time Britain woke up and stopped kissing the feet of the privileged rich.
One bodyguard unit you missed, Dr. Felton, are the Royal Horse Aritleery. They wear Hussar looking uniforms and were the ones that dre the guin carriage carrying the casker of the late Queen during the procession that took her casket to lie in state at Westminster Abbey(?).
As always, a great video Mr. Dr. Felton. I've noticed that the royal family, including the king, were dressed in RAF colours during the ceremonial procession to Westminster Hall, maybe you could, and I am asking this with the upmost humbleness, share some light on why the RAF and not another service, or civilian clothes. Many thanks Dr.
King Charles holds honorary ranks in all three services, and is an Honorary Marshal of the Royal Air Force. I guess he could choose which of the services to represent. The other day, he wore the uniform of a British Army Field Marshal. I expect he will wear his Admiral of the Fleet uniform for the funeral on Monday. Regarding Prince William, his military service was mostly in the RAF, hence his uniform.
The surprise is to see Prince Edward anywhere near a uniform, as he dropped out of training. I think Anne served in some capacity. Andrew certainly did.
@@timf2279 And I think it's a bit frivolous to talk about "pompous" when talking about the Head and Commander-in-Chief of the British Armed Forces. Does "I swear by almighty God that I will be faithful, and bear true allegiance to his Majesty King Charles III, his heirs and successors, and that I will as in duty bound, honestly and faithfully defend his Majesty, his heirs and successors in person, crown and dignity, against all enemies, and will observe and obey all orders of His Majesty, his heirs and successors and the generals and officers set over me." ring any bells?
REALLY looking forward to the next episode. PLEASE, Dr. Felton - please update the next episode in this series ASAP. And THANK YOU for posting the video about the Queen's Car collection - it's now archive/reference-material for my HRH collection. Very much enjoy watching the videos you post on your channel, Sir. Thank you.
I saw once a video of the Yeomen of the Tower, the Beefeaters, explaining to visitors to the Tower how you could tell the ex-RAF Beefeaters: He said that they were walking around holding hands...
In the military documentary 'Carry On Up The Khyber' the regiment is documented in the programme as The Third Foot & Mouth. Could you explain what happened to this regiment? I'm assuming it got swallowed up by the RCT, The Scots Guards or similar. Thanks.
This is saved to my personal documentary video list. Very informative and interesting video. I also remember my late friend taking new to Windsor castle soon after I arrived to live in the country. I knew of royal guard and ghurkas, we were standing in perfect spot for them to honour Queen's residence "eyes right". I actually almost pissed myself knowing these soldiers. I was wearing military like outfit that day. My respects to the royal family and to the soldiers of UK
Can't wait for the Lifeguards :) Just incase, around 4:15 , James VI inherited the English throne... so from James VI of Scotland and I of England it was not just an English King. Of course with the Act of Union of Scotland, and Act of Union of England... in 1700's it became more "British"
Thank you for the content Mark! If it was your area, I’d love you to do a video on the Close protection officers assigned the monarchy. Lately been watching King Charles’ bearded giant by his side be good to know some of the history of these officers!
The Scots Guards wore the red tunic and bearskin when on public duties at Edinburgh Castle when serving as the resident infantry battalion in Edinburgh. They also provided the Royal Guard at Balmoral when the resident battalion at Edinburgh. I was a REME vehicle mechanic attached to them in 1992 and provided mechanic cover at Balmoral.
2. Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms 3.Royal Company of Archers, The King's Bodyguard for Scotland Edit: forgot the Yeoman Warders of the Tower(damn thought I predicted the future episodes)
I think not. The Yeoman of the Guard and Yeoman Warders of the Tower are two distinct entities. The Yeoman of the Guard have cross belts worn from the left shoulder when they wear scarlet red uniforms, the Yeoman Warders of the Tower have the same ceremonial uniform but without the crossed belt.
I remember seeing a lot of Guards at the Tower in 1979, many of which were wearing WWII Campaign Medals, but they had a large burly Scotsman guarding the Crown Jewels.
I vaguely remember seeing a UK army band in Singapore in the 1950's. I particularly remember the drummer, who wore a tiger skin on his breast under the drum and was a Gurkha.
Great video, however as some have pointed out (I went to the comments to write it before I read others :D ), the Partisan is the "pike" they are carrying, not a sword. No idea what kind of swords they have, because in the pictures provided it's not very visible. But the polearm is 100% a Partisan.
Do the Yeomen of the guard train actually to protect the Monarch as body guards. Would they be expected to use their weapons if needed or is it all just play acting for ceremonies?
Please turn up the volume on your end. I have to have the volume on my laptop and UA-cam at 100%n and can hear but some times I'm not able to understand what you say Thanks!!
Dr Felton, could you cover the *Company of Pikemen and Musketeers* and the rest of the *Honourable Artillery Company* (HAC) e.g. Light Cavalry, in one of your following videos in this series? I think they should be part of more ceremonial parades outside the City of London as their period uniforms look great. Although I prefer 18th and 19th century uniforms more, they still have their place in the history of English and British militaria, and it is interesting. The Pikemen in particular are rather dapper looking and it's a shame more uniforms like this aren't commemorated, as they bridge a certain gap, visually, between the Tudor uniforms of the Yeomen of the Guard and the Yeomen Warders, and the later uniforms of the 1700's (speaking of which, there are scarce few cases of 18th century uniforms still being used, with some exceptions e.g. the '1781 Jersey Militia'; this is the only name I can find for them; the group whom took part in the 96 gun salutes going on around the country and some parts of the Commonwealth, when Queen Elizabeth II had passed away) I can't find much more about the group though they looked pretty good on the cameras with their cannons. They seem to be part of Jersey Heritage like some sort of historical re-enactment group but for all I know they may have veterans among them so I hope not to be getting that wrong in any sort of rude way. I kind of wish there were dedicated ceremonial units for each century to join the actual military parades of the British Armed Forces, for each century (even it they were primarily or entirely comprised of civilian enthusiasts/re-enactors; albeit perhaps with somewhat more stringent and demanding rules of entry and fitness standards) Or perhaps they could be primarily comprised of volunteer veterans like a number of ceremonial guard units already are (though I understand if there are logistical and financial limitations on this) It'd just be nice to see a wider range of historical periods demonstrated, all for the sake of posterity and remembrance. If the units are pretty modest in size (at platoon to company size) then I don't see why there couldn't be a few more raised to fill some visual gaps in the historical narrative of the evolution of the British Armed Forces. For instance, why not a dedicated unit for the commemoration of the Bluffs or some other regimental unit of the army which John Churchill led into battle at Blenheim in 1704? The early 1700's are a sort of overlooked time, much as the early 1800's are, in terms of ceremonial units in the 21st century. It's cool and all that there are ceremonial units dotted around all over the place like the Yeomen Warders, Yeomen of the Guard, the Atholl Highlanders, the Company of Pikemen and Musketeers, the Lifeguards (at least, some of the time, when they are not on active duty) and the Gentlemen-at-Arms etc. It's just, there could be a half dozen others that seem not to exist or time periods that just are not 'covered' (by sheer dint of existence at all, if nothing else) in the same ceremonious way. Maybe there is some colonial shame involved in that across a certain span of time. However, a lot of regimental units existed that were reformed and reallocated into different formations, across the centuries, in different reforms and major structural changes. There is an embarrassment of riches in terms of units which could be made to commemorate different aspects of British military history. Yet many seem, forgotten, or only very rarely commemorated if ever. For instance, the Royal Marines as they appeared in the early 19th century. I've seen some historical parades with the Royal Marines in the 19th century dress, from the 20th century on British Pathé film reels. Yet I don't think they are usually seen any more, if at all. I wish there was a ceremonial unit commemorating the British solders at the Battle of Minden, in the year 1759 (to also, by extension, commemorate the Annus Mirabilis of 1759; sometimes considered the most successful year in British military history, and one of the milestone, era defining moments in the rising star of British cultural influence, in the 18th century) I have a few off the cuff ideas for what that unit would theoretically be called: the Minden Roses, the Minden Memorial Guard, the Minden Company of Honour Guards, the Minden Honour Guards, the Minden Foot Guards, the Mirabilis Guard. Something to basically honour the entire 18th century legacy of the British military and to give a nod to the British role in the victory in the Seven Years War. I know resources are tight and that allocating a bunch of money to ceremonial outfits using expensive period uniforms and bespoke, tailor made uniforms at that, very specific to the periods they are covering, would raise eyebrows. It just makes me wonder why there hasn't been some attempt to more coherently celebrate each successive chapter in the story of the British Armed Forces. There could/should be a lot more 'parade available' ceremonial units, to make ceremonial events more impressive and give more variety. Historians of each period could inform and advise the uniform recreations. There were lots of other suggestions I made in what was a much longer text, though suffice it to say I will edit out a big chunk in the middle and leave the end bit on: I guess it's difficult to fund such things, though there could be much more lavish parades with a lot more units involved representing a lot more history. I suggested about five special units there which, combined, might have about 480-500 personnel. That wouldn't exactly be Earth shattering in terms of a logistical and funding effort. 100 here, 100 there, 60 here, 80 there etc. Even small ceremonial units say platoon sized, like the Gentlemen-at-Arms are. That'd be achievable for the UK, with it's population, especially if civilian enthusiasts and militaria experts and re-enactors were allowed to join in, that is, as long as they all went through measured training to bring them up to par with the rest of the unit. That kind of thing. The Minden Memorial Guard I suggested could do English Heritage events and parade and volley fire. I know there are small re-enactment groups for certain things in the British military from the 18th and 19th centuries, I was just meaning something more formalised. e.g. there is such a thing as the 33rd Foot; a civilian re-enactment group, specifically portraying a British regular line infantry regiment from the period, 1812 to 1816. Re-enactment groups are one thing, ceremonial troops that are allowed to parade during Royal events are another. It would be really interesting if more such ceremonial units were formed and allowed to parade down The Mall and around other places, just so long as they were raised to a military ceremonial standard, not just being good enough to wow the crowds in a semi-informal way, at English Heritage occasions. I chose the idea of a ceremonial unit for 1759, because it pretty much perfectly encapsulates the mid 18th century, and the spirit of the British military from the Seven Years War. The British regiments and their allies at Minden, broke the French cavalry charge _in line_ (not even in square formation) and marched through a deluge of artillery fire to comprehensively drive the French from the field. It was an advance by determined British infantry, which was made in error, as they wore roses in their hats plucked from orchards and hedgerows on the way to the battlefield. The whole aesthetic of the British regiments involved at the Battle of Minden 1759, would make for a spectacular sight if recreated authentically in the 21st century. The vivid tunics, the bright roses in their cocked-hats (often wrongly referred to as 'tricorns'; a common misconception) It would really be something else. Maybe they'd be based in different cities such as York or Derby, or have other connections and new customs and traditions (e.g. the Minden one could have a lot of ceremony and unit lore around the roses) It really would be nice to see different eras of British history represented more officially (not just by re-enactors) The suggestions I made were (in a sort of chronological order): - the Parliamentary Memorial Cavalry/'The Roundheads'; honouring the Cromwellian Horse that were so prominent in the English Civil War. 50-60 of them. - the Buffs/the Old Buffs; honouring the look of the early 18th century army of the 1st Duke of Marlborough (these could also have an alternative ceremonial uniform, showing how they looked in 1750-1760, half a century later?) 100-120 of them. - the Minden Memorial Guard/'The Minden Roses'; honouring the entire British Army of the 18th century, especially the mid-18th century, and the Annus Mirabilis ('Year of Wonders/Miracles') of the British military, seen globally in 1759. Made to look as they did at the Battle of Minden. 100-120 of them. - Royal Marines early 19th century uniform memorial guard; basically the Royal Marines as Lord Nelson saw them, in the late 18th to early 19th centuries. A dedicated Royal Navy and Royal Marines affiliated memorial guard comprised of Royal Marines veterans honouring the maritime glory of Nelson and his entire era of compatriots in the Age of Sail. They would be based in HMNB Portsmouth (Historic Dockyards) and maybe Plymouth as well. 100-120 or so. Perhaps their formal name could be the Nelsonian Guard (?) Or maybe the Trafalgar Memorial Guard (?) - the WWI Memorial Guard; honouring WWI infantry soldiers in 1918 British Army uniforms, using the period drill, rifles and sword bayonets of the era. 100. All told these, as estimated, amount to anywhere between 450-540 in total, across the entire UK. I don't think that is impossible to achieve, all considered (while not taking away from any of the already existing ceremonial units) Dr Felton, make it happen, I believe in you lol England expects...
May I add my condolences for the death of Queen Elizabeth II. I was born the year she was crowned Queen and, from my view in the USA, she bore the Crown through tumultuous times no one could have imagined. She did so with grace and a remarkable constitution.
Its interesting to note that the tassels on the yeoman pikes (or any polearms like halberds for that matter) are not intended to be ornamental or ceremonial but instead are a practical part of the weapon itself. The tassels are put on pikes to absorb blood thus preventing the polearm from becoming greasy and slipping in combat almost like a mop.
Awsome! Thanks for letting me know something I didn't know
The tassels like their Chinese spear counterparts, also serve to when fencing with the spear and it also allows the user to see where his own spear point is located. Hence, bright colours for the tassel.
I see mark I click
He approves of your word Adam.
You've been chosen.
@@aaronomahony the honor is mine
Yup.
@Wagner Football Club Thesaloniki (Thessalonians) we all click
Top Marks.
Proud to have served in the Blues and Royals 👍🏻 great content Mr Felton as always
Charles the Second formed the Life Guards when he rode from Restoration house in Rochester Kent to be reinstated as King of England
Good for you! All this ceremonial stuff is just lovely. The one thing I wish the did differently are the guns of the Scots Guards, something "period" would look nicer. =)
@@skwalka6372 I think their assault rifles are meant to be used against 21th century attackers, not against the musqueteers of Richelieu.
If the Scots Guards were armed with arquebuses or musquets... Well, perhaps they would not be on pair with any holder of automatic weapons. Think about the assassins at Paris 2015 with their Kalashnikovs.
You guys are way cooler than the Life Guards.
That's really cool!
I don't find it dizzying, I find it wonderful. Love the pomp and circumstance.
The household cavalry regiment has beautiful uniforms. I love the pomp in ceremony that they have in the United Kingdom. I am saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. God save the King
The ceremony eventually becomes pointless and empty after a point.
Just tradition for traditions sake.
The pudding spinner holding the stick of snakes in his left hand because it looks fancy. Have him give 4 whistles and a foot stomp. Oh look isn't it different.
Fuck the monarchs and their simps.
u think we still live in the middle ages plus not saddened be same as always life goes on
Appreciate the disctinction between the Yeoman and the Yeoman Warders, they often get confused with each other. Interesting historical note, I have heard we don't know more about the Yeoman of the Guard because their records were burned at one point.
Regardless what someone may feel about the monarchy, I really like hearing about the history behind the uniforms and the origins of the soldiers who wear them.
It's the same with the Romans, many of them were pedophile wastrels like the British royal family, but it's still interesting
Somehow i thought that the yeomen were called beefeaters. Like the gin.
What's wrong with Monarchy?
I don't have a problem with the monarchy at all, but it doesn't really affect me, I'm not British.
IMO it is a part of their national identity with a rich history some of it good, some bad just like any nations past.
But as I have read there are those who wish to see it go away as a relic of the past.
@@garrysekelli6776
I think they were.
I'm pretty sure that I watched a show that said reason they were called that was because while under service to the King they were given extra portions of beef as a perk.
My father (Royal Canadian Artillery) who served on the front lines in WW2 guarded Buck Pal in 1946. He told me all about the marching. My father-in-law was in the Irish Guards and also guarded Buck Pal around the same time. Interesting video.
Correction:
"Partisan" is the name of the specific polearm head they are carrying. Not the sword or the dagger. The symmetrical lance/pike head in the pictures you provided is the "Partisan".
Always love your content. Kind regards.
Beat me too it. Lol
I thought those were spontoons?
‘Not the sword *nor* the dagger’
@@unicorn_6932 Thank you.
Yes MARK gets a lot of obvious details wrong in a lot of his videos; enough to question his knowledge and expertise in developing his not so accurate information from the slanted British perspective. Did Hitler get away to Argentina? Yes he did. Flying saucers in ANTARCTICA during Byrd? Oh yes indeed. Submarine pens under the Antarctica ice? Yes indeed. Forestall murdered? Yes indeed. Shall we go on for another half hour? Was Amelia's plane destroyed by American marines? Yes indeed....
Thank you. Looking forward to them all!!
I love that there is a backup Mark who enthusiastically shouts stuff that Mark forgot to say. "And also at the Tower of London!"
It really sounds like the Backup Mark is in the next room.
This is an excellent idea for a series, I certainly hope to that you will make a video about each and every one of the royal bodyguard units for the British Monarchy.
Love when a ceremonial unit has a longer history than most (?) countries have been around in their current manner.
The Beefeaters were founded seven years before Columbus reached the Caribbean Islands.
Yet another great episode from Dr Felton...his channel just keeps giving...
Thank you Mark. There were very many interesting uniforms and costumes on display a few days ago in the city of London when the new monarch was proclaimed.
I think what fascinates and gives me faith and respect in the UK is the fact that all ceremonial guards are true to their heritage, they are the active combat forces. This is how you do things.
Mr. Felton, I am a veteran of the US Army’s 20th Infantry Regiment during OIF and OEF and would love to see you make a video of their exploits during WW2. They served in the Pacific theatre and it seems their sacrifices have been forgotten.
Mark, the numbers of guard organizations and their duties mind boggling to us former colonials. Interesting to know that most members of the guards are serving soldiers! As usual, another informative video. 😊
The Foot Guards regiments rotate through deployment, training, leave and palace duties with the addition of 2 rifles and the Gurkhas having had a turn in the last few years.
You would have seen quite a show of them during the Queen's Funeral! As Mark has shown already, we have the Yeoman Warders and the Yeoman of the Guard (both made up of UK ex-military veterans). We also have the Honourable Corp of Gentlemen-at-Arms (who are ex-military officers) and the Royal Company of Archers (the Scottish ceremonial guard, once traditionally made up of royalist aristocrats). These all make up the ceremonial group known as the Sovereign's Bodyguard.
Then there's the serving military guards, so the Household Division, making up the 5 Footguards (the stereotypical King's Guards) and 2 Calvary Regiments. In practice, these are all serving Army regiments. Then there's the King's Colour Squadron of the Royal Air Force who are often invited to guard the Royal Palaces in place of the Household Division (although ceremonially, they guard the 'Colours', rather than the King himself). The Royal Marines, though not officially a guard unit, often represent the Royal Navy as the King/Queen's ceremonial guards as well.
Finally, there's Royalty and Specialist Protection, who are not ceremonial at all but rather the police protection (and are the closest thing to literal bodyguards for the Royal Family).
Awesome upload. So much interesting n informative history of rhe Yeomans. Kudos
I'm absolutely certain Mark Felton must already know this, but he abbreviated the story about them saving king James from the gunpowder quite a lot. They weren't just patrolling, they were actively searching for something as the plot to blew up the king and parliament had got so many people involved that eventually someone leaked that something was going to happen.
Superb bit of history . Having watched the queen’s funeral from beginning to end, this has shed some light on questions I had . Thanks for uploading.
"Spectacle" is correct. Thanks for trying to clear things up.
New Mark videos to help me pass the time while sick in bed are always more than welcome
Feel better soon
Hope you recover soon!
@@WarStorieswithMarkFelton thank you so much!
Thank you Mark. This video is really fascinating 🙂
YES Dr KEEP INFORMING ALL THAT DONT UNDERSTAND HOW OLD THESE TRADITIONS ARE .
It was an old tradition to burn people at the stake, along with countless other traditions but luckily we came to our senses. Maybe it's time Britain woke up and stopped kissing the feet of the privileged rich.
Your caps lock button seems to be on
Always learn something new here. Thanks Dr. Felton!
Thank you ,l enjoy the rich history behind these regiments.
One bodyguard unit you missed, Dr. Felton, are the Royal Horse Aritleery. They wear Hussar looking uniforms and were the ones that dre the guin carriage carrying the casker of the late Queen during the procession that took her casket to lie in state at Westminster Abbey(?).
As always, a great video Mr. Dr. Felton. I've noticed that the royal family, including the king, were dressed in RAF colours during the ceremonial procession to Westminster Hall, maybe you could, and I am asking this with the upmost humbleness, share some light on why the RAF and not another service, or civilian clothes.
Many thanks Dr.
King Charles holds honorary ranks in all three services, and is an Honorary Marshal of the Royal Air Force. I guess he could choose which of the services to represent. The other day, he wore the uniform of a British Army Field Marshal. I expect he will wear his Admiral of the Fleet uniform for the funeral on Monday. Regarding Prince William, his military service was mostly in the RAF, hence his uniform.
The surprise is to see Prince Edward anywhere near a uniform, as he dropped out of training.
I think Anne served in some capacity. Andrew certainly did.
@@WarStorieswithMarkFelton thanks a lot for your enlightening response.
Although, most of the male senior royals served in some capacity, I think its a but pompous to wear these honorary uniforms.
@@timf2279 And I think it's a bit frivolous to talk about "pompous" when talking about the Head and Commander-in-Chief of the British Armed Forces.
Does "I swear by almighty God that I will be faithful, and bear true allegiance to his Majesty King Charles III, his heirs and successors, and that I will as in duty bound, honestly and faithfully defend his Majesty, his heirs and successors in person, crown and dignity, against all enemies, and will observe and obey all orders of His Majesty, his heirs and successors and the generals and officers set over me." ring any bells?
REALLY looking forward to the next episode. PLEASE, Dr. Felton - please update the next episode in this series ASAP. And THANK YOU for posting the video about the Queen's Car collection - it's now archive/reference-material for my HRH collection. Very much enjoy watching the videos you post on your channel, Sir. Thank you.
I look forward to your exceptional videos, Dr. Felton! Keep up the great work!
I hope our sibling across the pond never give up these traditions. Super cool and rich in history.
Just think. These guards go back so far they are older than some countries.
Love this channel!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing your information Mark. As always, well done sir!
I saw once a video of the Yeomen of the Tower, the Beefeaters, explaining to visitors to the Tower how you could tell the ex-RAF Beefeaters: He said that they were walking around holding hands...
I'm never disappointed with a Mark Felton video!
Thanks for all Your hard work in sharing all this interesting Information with Us.
I love when u do British Military History.
I was wondering about this. Thanks for another good educational video Mark ! Cheers.
It's great to see History of the Past as it meets History of Today...
Thanks again, Mark...🇺🇸🎩🇺🇸
An excellent video, I was hoping for more content on the unit itself as opposed to its history.
Nice start, I can't wait for more!
this channel comes in so clutch
2:06 It’s Captain Mainwaring from “Dad’s Army”!
Thanks Mark Felton!
T hank You for this very informative video! I always love the mounted regiments !
In the military documentary 'Carry On Up The Khyber' the regiment is documented in the programme as The Third Foot & Mouth. Could you explain what happened to this regiment? I'm assuming it got swallowed up by the RCT, The Scots Guards or similar. Thanks.
I was going to ask where were the Beefeaters. You answered right at the end. Looking forward to the next episode Professor Felton!
What fascinating content Dr Felton, I had never known the Yeomen of the Guard discovered the gunpowder plotters!
This is saved to my personal documentary video list. Very informative and interesting video.
I also remember my late friend taking new to Windsor castle soon after I arrived to live in the country. I knew of royal guard and ghurkas, we were standing in perfect spot for them to honour Queen's residence "eyes right". I actually almost pissed myself knowing these soldiers. I was wearing military like outfit that day.
My respects to the royal family and to the soldiers of UK
Nice one.I love the colours.And those horses strutting out in unison.
Can't wait for the Lifeguards :) Just incase, around 4:15 , James VI inherited the English throne... so from James VI of Scotland and I of England it was not just an English King. Of course with the Act of Union of Scotland, and Act of Union of England... in 1700's it became more "British"
Thank you for the content Mark! If it was your area, I’d love you to do a video on the Close protection officers assigned the monarchy. Lately been watching King Charles’ bearded giant by his side be good to know some of the history of these officers!
I hope Dr. Felton will explain how the Beefeaters acquired their name in the next part of this series.
Awesome content as always!
Always watch this guys videos. Very informative, great channel.
Nice. Can't wait to see the next video in this series.
The 22 years of service and having the rank of either warrant officer class 2 or Warrant Officer class 2 is new and was only recently required.
pomp and ceremony - some love it. Some find it quaint, and interesting hobby. We all need hobbies.
Yay, more fascinating content!
The Scots Guards wore the red tunic and bearskin when on public duties at Edinburgh Castle when serving as the resident infantry battalion in Edinburgh. They also provided the Royal Guard at Balmoral when the resident battalion at Edinburgh. I was a REME vehicle mechanic attached to them in 1992 and provided mechanic cover at Balmoral.
2. Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms
3.Royal Company of Archers, The King's Bodyguard for Scotland
Edit: forgot the Yeoman Warders of the Tower(damn thought I predicted the future episodes)
Maybe a shout-out to the Royalty Protection Command Detectives?
I think not. The Yeoman of the Guard and Yeoman Warders of the Tower are two distinct entities. The Yeoman of the Guard have cross belts worn from the left shoulder when they wear scarlet red uniforms, the Yeoman Warders of the Tower have the same ceremonial uniform but without the crossed belt.
I watched ur channel for years ur awesome
THANKS A MILLION DEAR SIR 😘 AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS 👍 🙏 ❤️
I remember seeing a lot of Guards at the Tower in 1979, many of which were wearing WWII Campaign Medals, but they had a large burly Scotsman guarding the Crown Jewels.
I always pay strict attention to the safety of my own, as well.
This is so fascinating I had been wondering the the background of these guards. Thanks for the video
I love this channel so much I click like twice!
So you remove your like then
Informative video, thank you very much.
Thanks for the video Mark, very interesting and informative!!😎🇬🇧
Feldman's videos are always interesting
This is great stuff.
I vaguely remember seeing a UK army band in Singapore in the 1950's. I particularly remember the drummer, who wore a tiger skin on his breast under the drum and was a Gurkha.
Mark. Thanks for providing my Thursday night entertainment!
Thank you 😊
Best channel on yt, thanks
This is the type of story that can’t be found anywhere else
Best channel on UA-cam
British history-if your completely confused, then you've got it.🤣I love this stuff!
I’m a simple man: When someone mentions King James I, I like the video.
Great video, however as some have pointed out (I went to the comments to write it before I read others :D ), the Partisan is the "pike" they are carrying, not a sword.
No idea what kind of swords they have, because in the pictures provided it's not very visible. But the polearm is 100% a Partisan.
Enjoyed your video and I gave it a Thumbs Up
Dr Mark, are the Yeoman Of The Guard also referred to as "Beefeater" Guards?
Another excellent video 👍
Great content Mark
Thank you. I was curious about this.
A WHOLE SERIES ON THE ROYAL BODYGUARDS *RUBS HANDS IN GLEE*
What about the Scots ones dressed in green Kings archers 🏹
Mark, Remember that James 1 of England was also James 6 of Scotland and the first King of both countries
Do the Yeomen of the guard train actually to protect the Monarch as body guards. Would they be expected to use their weapons if needed or is it all just play acting for ceremonies?
The cloth of all of the Guards' scarlet tunics is made by a very old company in Yorkshire, and has been for many, many years.
Not his usual but I know I’m going to learn something and be entertained.
Please turn up the volume on your end. I have to have the volume on my laptop and UA-cam at 100%n and can hear but some times I'm not able to understand what you say Thanks!!
Dr Felton, could you cover the *Company of Pikemen and Musketeers* and the rest of the *Honourable Artillery Company* (HAC) e.g. Light Cavalry, in one of your following videos in this series? I think they should be part of more ceremonial parades outside the City of London as their period uniforms look great.
Although I prefer 18th and 19th century uniforms more, they still have their place in the history of English and British militaria, and it is interesting.
The Pikemen in particular are rather dapper looking and it's a shame more uniforms like this aren't commemorated, as they bridge a certain gap, visually, between the Tudor uniforms of the Yeomen of the Guard and the Yeomen Warders, and the later uniforms of the 1700's (speaking of which, there are scarce few cases of 18th century uniforms still being used, with some exceptions e.g. the '1781 Jersey Militia'; this is the only name I can find for them; the group whom took part in the 96 gun salutes going on around the country and some parts of the Commonwealth, when Queen Elizabeth II had passed away) I can't find much more about the group though they looked pretty good on the cameras with their cannons.
They seem to be part of Jersey Heritage like some sort of historical re-enactment group but for all I know they may have veterans among them so I hope not to be getting that wrong in any sort of rude way.
I kind of wish there were dedicated ceremonial units for each century to join the actual military parades of the British Armed Forces, for each century (even it they were primarily or entirely comprised of civilian enthusiasts/re-enactors; albeit perhaps with somewhat more stringent and demanding rules of entry and fitness standards)
Or perhaps they could be primarily comprised of volunteer veterans like a number of ceremonial guard units already are (though I understand if there are logistical and financial limitations on this) It'd just be nice to see a wider range of historical periods demonstrated, all for the sake of posterity and remembrance. If the units are pretty modest in size (at platoon to company size) then I don't see why there couldn't be a few more raised to fill some visual gaps in the historical narrative of the evolution of the British Armed Forces.
For instance, why not a dedicated unit for the commemoration of the Bluffs or some other regimental unit of the army which John Churchill led into battle at Blenheim in 1704? The early 1700's are a sort of overlooked time, much as the early 1800's are, in terms of ceremonial units in the 21st century. It's cool and all that there are ceremonial units dotted around all over the place like the Yeomen Warders, Yeomen of the Guard, the Atholl Highlanders, the Company of Pikemen and Musketeers, the Lifeguards (at least, some of the time, when they are not on active duty) and the Gentlemen-at-Arms etc.
It's just, there could be a half dozen others that seem not to exist or time periods that just are not 'covered' (by sheer dint of existence at all, if nothing else) in the same ceremonious way. Maybe there is some colonial shame involved in that across a certain span of time. However, a lot of regimental units existed that were reformed and reallocated into different formations, across the centuries, in different reforms and major structural changes.
There is an embarrassment of riches in terms of units which could be made to commemorate different aspects of British military history. Yet many seem, forgotten, or only very rarely commemorated if ever. For instance, the Royal Marines as they appeared in the early 19th century. I've seen some historical parades with the Royal Marines in the 19th century dress, from the 20th century on British Pathé film reels. Yet I don't think they are usually seen any more, if at all.
I wish there was a ceremonial unit commemorating the British solders at the Battle of Minden, in the year 1759 (to also, by extension, commemorate the Annus Mirabilis of 1759; sometimes considered the most successful year in British military history, and one of the milestone, era defining moments in the rising star of British cultural influence, in the 18th century) I have a few off the cuff ideas for what that unit would theoretically be called: the Minden Roses, the Minden Memorial Guard, the Minden Company of Honour Guards, the Minden Honour Guards, the Minden Foot Guards, the Mirabilis Guard.
Something to basically honour the entire 18th century legacy of the British military and to give a nod to the British role in the victory in the Seven Years War.
I know resources are tight and that allocating a bunch of money to ceremonial outfits using expensive period uniforms and bespoke, tailor made uniforms at that, very specific to the periods they are covering, would raise eyebrows. It just makes me wonder why there hasn't been some attempt to more coherently celebrate each successive chapter in the story of the British Armed Forces. There could/should be a lot more 'parade available' ceremonial units, to make ceremonial events more impressive and give more variety. Historians of each period could inform and advise the uniform recreations.
There were lots of other suggestions I made in what was a much longer text, though suffice it to say I will edit out a big chunk in the middle and leave the end bit on:
I guess it's difficult to fund such things, though there could be much more lavish parades with a lot more units involved representing a lot more history. I suggested about five special units there which, combined, might have about 480-500 personnel. That wouldn't exactly be Earth shattering in terms of a logistical and funding effort. 100 here, 100 there, 60 here, 80 there etc.
Even small ceremonial units say platoon sized, like the Gentlemen-at-Arms are. That'd be achievable for the UK, with it's population, especially if civilian enthusiasts and militaria experts and re-enactors were allowed to join in, that is, as long as they all went through measured training to bring them up to par with the rest of the unit. That kind of thing.
The Minden Memorial Guard I suggested could do English Heritage events and parade and volley fire. I know there are small re-enactment groups for certain things in the British military from the 18th and 19th centuries, I was just meaning something more formalised. e.g. there is such a thing as the 33rd Foot; a civilian re-enactment group, specifically portraying a British regular line infantry regiment from the period, 1812 to 1816. Re-enactment groups are one thing, ceremonial troops that are allowed to parade during Royal events are another.
It would be really interesting if more such ceremonial units were formed and allowed to parade down The Mall and around other places, just so long as they were raised to a military ceremonial standard, not just being good enough to wow the crowds in a semi-informal way, at English Heritage occasions. I chose the idea of a ceremonial unit for 1759, because it pretty much perfectly encapsulates the mid 18th century, and the spirit of the British military from the Seven Years War.
The British regiments and their allies at Minden, broke the French cavalry charge _in line_ (not even in square formation) and marched through a deluge of artillery fire to comprehensively drive the French from the field. It was an advance by determined British infantry, which was made in error, as they wore roses in their hats plucked from orchards and hedgerows on the way to the battlefield. The whole aesthetic of the British regiments involved at the Battle of Minden 1759, would make for a spectacular sight if recreated authentically in the 21st century. The vivid tunics, the bright roses in their cocked-hats (often wrongly referred to as 'tricorns'; a common misconception)
It would really be something else. Maybe they'd be based in different cities such as York or Derby, or have other connections and new customs and traditions (e.g. the Minden one could have a lot of ceremony and unit lore around the roses) It really would be nice to see different eras of British history represented more officially (not just by re-enactors) The suggestions I made were (in a sort of chronological order):
- the Parliamentary Memorial Cavalry/'The Roundheads'; honouring the Cromwellian Horse that were so prominent in the English Civil War. 50-60 of them.
- the Buffs/the Old Buffs; honouring the look of the early 18th century army of the 1st Duke of Marlborough (these could also have an alternative ceremonial uniform, showing how they looked in 1750-1760, half a century later?) 100-120 of them.
- the Minden Memorial Guard/'The Minden Roses'; honouring the entire British Army of the 18th century, especially the mid-18th century, and the Annus Mirabilis ('Year of Wonders/Miracles') of the British military, seen globally in 1759. Made to look as they did at the Battle of Minden. 100-120 of them.
- Royal Marines early 19th century uniform memorial guard; basically the Royal Marines as Lord Nelson saw them, in the late 18th to early 19th centuries. A dedicated Royal Navy and Royal Marines affiliated memorial guard comprised of Royal Marines veterans honouring the maritime glory of Nelson and his entire era of compatriots in the Age of Sail. They would be based in HMNB Portsmouth (Historic Dockyards) and maybe Plymouth as well. 100-120 or so.
Perhaps their formal name could be the Nelsonian Guard (?) Or maybe the Trafalgar Memorial Guard (?)
- the WWI Memorial Guard; honouring WWI infantry soldiers in 1918 British Army uniforms, using the period drill, rifles and sword bayonets of the era. 100.
All told these, as estimated, amount to anywhere between 450-540 in total, across the entire UK. I don't think that is impossible to achieve, all considered (while not taking away from any of the already existing ceremonial units) Dr Felton, make it happen, I believe in you lol England expects...
Fascinating
Very interesting.. an education at a sad time 🇬🇧✌
May I add my condolences for the death of Queen Elizabeth II. I was born the year she was crowned Queen and, from my view in the USA, she bore the Crown through tumultuous times no one could have imagined. She did so with grace and a remarkable constitution.
Thank you
2:55 powerful order necklace chain Tudor is wearing
Queen Elizabeth was a class act and a lady. May she rest in peace.
Very interesting thank you.
Doc, you must admit that those "Beefeaters" do look pretty funny.