The Waterloo Band & Bugles of The Rifles has had a jam-packed 2024. A guiding theme has been the Army’s Engage to Recruit programme. This plays directly into our role of providing high-visibility public events in support of Army recruitment. On the back of this, we have seen a welcome increase in the number of concerts and appearances. One highlight was a royal engagement in the presence of our Colonel-in-Chief, Her Majesty The Queen in Lisburn for a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer cadre pass-off parade in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, by 2nd Battalion, The Rifles.
In May, two members of our Band, Sjt Hamilton and Musn Jackson, stepped out onto a world stage enhancing the Waterloo Band & Bugles of The Rifles for Changing of the Guard ceremonies in London and Windsor Castle. There couldn’t be a more visual demonstration of the Reserves’ ability to deliver the same high standards as our Regular Army counterparts. This is valuable experience for our musicians and one that Army Reserve bands outside of London rarely get the chance to participate in.
A highlight of Annual Continuous Training (Camp) was the visit by our Commanding Officer, Lt Col Guy Lock MBE, who presented several long service medals and clasps. In recent months nine recipients have received awards totalling 243 years of reserve service – an impressive achievement. Each was given a career citation as is the long-standing tradition within the Waterloo Band & Bugles.
Remembrance is an extremely busy period for the Waterloo Band & Bugles with personnel deployed to many locations for events. This year was no different and included: Lloyd’s of London, fundraising at Marylebone Station as part of the London Poppy Day, Sir Winston Churchill’s grave in Bladon, and Stadium MK, Milton Keynes – the home of MK Dons FC. A tribute to the musicians who have given their lives in conflict was planted in The Rifles plot at the Westminster Abbey Field of Remembrance. We hope the Colonel-in-Chief noticed it on her way around at the dedication.
A new venue and type of engagement was performing a cabaret military marching display in the magnificent setting of Selwyn College, Cambridge University, in support of the University Officers’ Training Corps. The Band did very well that evening not to bump into the diners seated at the tables as we weaved our way around. They clearly enjoyed the spectacle as we received a standing ovation. We hope to deliver similar performances again in future at the same or similar venues.
The year ahead looks exciting with a new PSI taking office following the retirement of WO2 Ghigi after eleven years and the recruitment of new players from a wide background. We are always interested to hear from anyone who wishes to pursue a part-time musical career. We have a diverse background of members so please do get in touch at 7rifles-band@mod.gov.uk.
LCpl Hissey, The Waterloo Band & Bugles of The Rifles
