Buckingham Palace welcomes first ever female Captain of the Queen’s Guard
The Changing of the Guard is one of Buckingham Palace’s most iconic sights and a highlight of many tourists’ visit to London. But if you’ve ever been, it’s likely you noticed something a little odd – there aren’t many women.
However, the Palace has taken a great step in promoting gender equality, welcoming its first ever female Captain of the Queen’s Guard, Canadian-born Captain Megan Coutu.
“I’m just focusing on doing my job as best I can and staying humble,” she told reporters before the ceremony. “Any of my peers would be absolutely delighted to be captain of the Queen’s Guard and I’m equally honoured.”
According to a statement from the royal family, Cpt. Coutu serves in The Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2PPCCLI), currently guarding the Palace. “Their visit to London coincides with the 150th anniversary of Canada and the Canadian Confederation.”
Footguards have guarded Buckingham Palace and other royal estates since 1600 and typically come from a battalion of the Household Division of the British Army, although regiments from around the world are also given the opportunity to participate in the Changing of the Guard.
See the historic moment in the gallery above and tell us in the comments, have you ever watched this iconic ceremony before?
Image credit: The Royal Family/Facebook.