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Unified Performance: Ukrainian and British Musicians Celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day During the Changing of the Guard Ceremony

In commemoration of Ukrainian Independence Day, the Ukrainian Naval Band joined forces with the Band of the Scots Guards for a special performance during the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. As a symbol of the strong Union between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, the bands...

Ukrainian and British musical ensembles join forces during the Changing of the Guard ceremony,...
Ukrainian and British musical ensembles join forces during the Changing of the Guard ceremony, celebrating Ukraine's Independence Day.

Unified Performance: Ukrainian and British Musicians Celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day During the Changing of the Guard Ceremony

In a remarkable display of solidarity, the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace took on a unique twist this weekend, with the inclusion of the Ukrainian Naval Band and the RAF Regiment.

The event, which attracts international attention, was conducted by soldiers from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (4REME). This was a significant moment, as it marked the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers' first Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and St James' Palace in almost 30 years.

The Ukrainian Naval Band performed alongside the Band of the Scots Guards, a rare occurrence that added an extra layer of significance to the ceremony. The bands came together to perform 'Stand By Me' by Ben E. King, in front of thousands of spectators.

The RAF Regiment took centre stage, with the King's Colour Squadron (KCS) of the RAF Regiment being guarded by the Band of the RAF Regiment and RAF Music Services. This marked the RAF Regiment's presence in the international spotlight, and their unwavering support for Ukraine.

The UK has stood firmly by Ukraine's side since Russia's illegal and unprovoked full-scale invasion in 2022. In March, the UK announced a historic £1.6 billion deal to provide more than five thousand air defence missiles for Ukraine. This year, £4.5bn is being spent on military support to Ukraine, the largest amount provided to date.

The event formed part of celebrations to mark Ukraine's 34 year of Independence. The day gained even more significance to the Ukrainian people, in the midst of ongoing war. The UK remains fully committed to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace has been a traditional event since Henry III's reign, and has been conducted by multiple British military bands, including the Band of the Welsh Guards and the Band of the RAF Regiment. This recent ceremony was no exception, as the Band of the Welsh Guards performed a rousing rendition of 'Sweet Caroline' shortly after the Lionesses kicked off their semi-final against Australia.

While information about the commanding officer or leading officer of the Ukrainian Marine Band during the Independence Day celebrations at Buckingham Palace is not widely available, it may be helpful to consult the official sources of Buckingham Palace or the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK for more specific details.

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