34 Squadron of 39 Engineer Regiment, Kinloss Barracks have taken up position of King’s Guard at at Buckingham Palace, HM Tower of London, St James’s Palace, and Windsor Castle

LOCALLY based soldiers are honoured to take up sentry postings at the centre of the UK's capital.

Following months of training, 34 Squadron of 39 Engineer Regiment have taken up position of King’s Guard for three months of state ceremonial public duties at Buckingham Palace, HM Tower of London, St James’s Palace, and Windsor Castle from late April to June; including when the world will be watching London and the royal palaces in particular.

Major David Hicketts, Officer Commanding 34 Fd Sqn, is proud of his regiment for taking on the responsibility.

He said: “It is a huge privilege during the period of His Majesty The King’s Coronation and it will be a proud moment in our history when our soldiers and officers form the King’s Guard on the May 7.

"All have thoroughly enjoyed their time training for ceremonial duties and have worked hard as a team to reach the right standard.

"We will relish the challenge and variety that the next few months will bring."

The soldiers have received months of guidance from the Household Division, undergoing inspections and drill practice to ensure the highest standards.

34 Squadron was formed in Chatham in July, 1858 and based there until 1977 when it was put under the administrative command of 39 Engineer Regiment and moved to Waterbeach, Cambridge.

The squadron’s role was originally in support of 19 Infantry Brigade, where it was mounted in Saxon Armoured Personnel Carriers.

Its emblem is the black panther in recognition of time spent in Kenya as part of the East Africa Independent Brigade (1958-1965), and more recently as part of 19 Infantry Brigade, both of which have a panther as part of their badge.

In April 1993, the squadron left 19 Brigade under the 'Options for Change' review. It undertook re-rolling to become an Operational Field Squadron (Air Support) in January 1995.

In July 2012, 34 Field Squadron, under 39 Engineer Regiment, moved to RAF Kinloss, from where they serve and support operations around the globe. Recently members have deployed to Iraq, Syria, Romania, France, Mali, Cyprus, Kenya, United Arab Emirates and Poland.

The squadron offers specialist air support engineering, airfield damage repair as well as provide artisan tradespeople and combat engineers.

Major Hicketts added: "They are looking forward to their next role of performing ceremonial duties for His Majesty The King at a unique moment in history."