HISTORY-MAKING CORONATION MOMENT FOR NZDF CONTINGENT

In front of the eyes of the world, seven Royal New Zealand Navy personnel marched among a New Zealand Defence Force contingent through central London as part of the historic Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III on Saturday May 6.

The 20-strong New Zealand contingent marched alongside members of the UK Armed Forces and personnel from across the Commonwealth in the return processions from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace. More than 7,000 personnel from 40 nations were involved in the spectacle. NZDF Contingent Commander Major Mike Beale said it was a pleasure to have led the young and diverse group.

“A lot of hard work and discipline went into this by some exemplary sailors, soldiers and aviators. I, like many in the contingent, was proud to have the opportunity to participate in such an historic event.

“The professionalism demonstrated by our hosts in preparing for a parade of such a scale has been of the highest level, mixed with good humour. The professionalism of the Commonwealth troops from 40 countries, all with slight variations in their drill, has enabled us to achieve a standard befitting of being at the head of the procession.”