The Duke of Edinburgh attends Royal Marines Parade
Published
The Duke, who began his Naval career in 1939, fittingly marks the end of his public programme by attending a parade with the Royal Marines at Buckingham Palace.
Since 1952, The Duke of Edinburgh has attended over 22,000 solo engagements. The Captain General's Parade at Buckingham Palace today was his last.
As announced in May 2017, The Duke will no longer undertake his own programme of public engagements, although he may choose to attend certain events, alongside The Queen, from time to time.
His Royal Highness's association with the Royal Marines dates back 64 years to 2nd June 1953 upon appointment as Captain General in succession to the late King George VI.
He has also been has been Honorary President of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Association and Club since 1948. The Royal Marines are the amphibious light infantry force that forms part of the Naval Service.
Today's parade marked the finale of the 1664 Global Challenge, which has been raising funds and awareness for The Royal Navy Marines charity – and symbolises the significance of 1664 as the year in which the Corps was founded. This year, the challenge saw Royal Marines from around the country running 16.64 miles each day for 100 days, totaling a distance of 1664 miles.
The Duke met representatives from the runners' contingent, including two Royal Marines who have completed the entire 1664 miles.
His Royal Highness also spoke to veterans and cadets before returning to the dais to receive the 1664 Global Challenge baton.
The Parade concluded with a march past, a Royal Salute and three cheers for the Captain General.
Related content
The Queen and members of the Royal Family will attend a Service of Thanksgiving
State Visit, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, 7 March 2006
I have vivid and happy memories of my visit to Brazil with Prince Philip in 1968, especially the warmth and hospitality of the Brazilian people.
State banquet in Malta, 23 November 2005
We both retain a deep affection for your country and the outgoing, generous Maltese people who have always offered us the hand of friendship.
Norway State Banquet, 25 October 2005
I remember the bonfires along the coastline as we arrived and the enthusiastic welcome we received as guests of your grandfather, King Haakon.
Dinner in HMS Victory, 200th anniversary of Trafalgar, 21 October 2005
Success at Trafalgar was by no means a foregone conclusion.
Marking 60th anniversary of the end of World War II in Guernsey, 9 May 2005
Prince Philip and I are happy to be in Guernsey on this sixtieth anniversary of liberation and to have joined in the Service of Thanksgiving
Visit to Jersey to mark the 60th anniversary of Liberation, 9 May 2005
I am pleased that so many people are present today for whom the 9th of May has such a personal significance.
State Banquet, President of the Republic of Korea, 1 December 2004
I was struck by the spirit of the Korean people, and their determination to overcome adversity
State Banquet, President of the United States of America, 19 November 2003
We share the confidence - and the courage - to try and make this a more prosperous, a safer, and above all a freer world.
Tri-Service gathering of the Armed Forces at Portsmouth, 27 June 2002
Britain is grateful to you, whether here in Portsmouth, in bases across the United Kingdom, or across the world.
