King Charles paid tribute to the courage and enduring legacy of Scotland’s soldiers as he unveiled a new monument commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Royal Regiment of Scotland during Royal Week in Edinburgh.
As Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, the King presided over the new bronze statue in West Princes Street Gardens, honoring the regiment’s proud history and the generations of servicemen who have defended the nation at home and abroad.
Created by acclaimed Edinburgh sculptor Kenny Hunter, the memorial depicts a reclining lion guarding the regiment’s cap badge, and the Royal Family share photographs of the tribute on Instagram.
The sculpture stands on a six-part stone plinth, representing the unity of Scotland’s six historic infantry regiments, which came together in 2006 to form the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Addressing serving personnel, veterans and guests gathered for the ceremony, the King reflected: “It is a time to reflect on two decades of service, as well as to honor a lineage that extends unbroken since 1633 from its former regiments, some represented here today, which now form this great Regiment.”
The Royal Regiment of Scotland, established in 2006, is the top line infantry regiment of the British Army and has served on operations around the world, including deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Cyprus, the Balkans and overseas peacekeeping missions. Its battalions continue to play a vital role in national defense, ceremonial duties and international operations.
Throughout his reign, King Charles has frequently praised the dedication of military personnel and veterans, highlighting the values of service and duty that remain at the heart of the monarchy.
It is hoped that this new monument will become a lasting landmark in the heart of Edinburgh, as a tribute not only to the first 20 years of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, but also to almost four centuries of military history which continues to shape the regiment’s identity today.
