Last night, under the glow of London's streetlamps, thousands of sailors, soldiers, and aviators paraded through empty streets on their final, full-scale rehearsal of the Coronation procession.
Although the main body of participants in HM The King's Coronation are drawn from the Single Services, Strategic Command will be represented by senior commanders and marching contingents from our overseas bases.
Representatives from the Overseas Bases lead part of last night's rehearsal
Ahead of the weekend's events, leaders from Strategic Command shared their thoughts on the momentous occasion.
General Sir Jim Hockenhull KBE, ADC Gen, Commander, Strategic Command said:
The Coronation of HM King Charles III is an historic event, and I am proud of the role that Strategic Command personnel will perform in the celebrations in London and across the world. As we build up to this weekend I am reminded, more than ever, of the strong bonds that the Armed Forces and Civil Service have with HM The King and the nation. Our people in Strategic Command, in the UK and across the network of overseas bases, work incredibly hard, playing a critical role in protecting the nation and helping it prosper.
Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes CBE, Deputy Commander, Strategic Command and Colonel Commandant of The Rifles said:
I pass on my warmest congratulations to our new King and HM The Queen Consort, and send my best wishes to all those watching across the UK, Commonwealth, and indeed the whole world, on a momentous day.
Warrant Officer Sara Catterall, Command Sergeant Major, Strategic Command said:
Congratulations to HM The King on his Coronation. It will be an honour to represent Defence, Strategic Command, and the RAF, in this weekend's Coronation procession and I look forward to seeing our personnel throughout the world marking this momentous occasion.
