Spectacular parade marks 300th anniversary of cavalry regiment, The Light Dragoons

As well as troops marching, the parade in Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire on Saturday (May 21) featured horses, tanks and armoured vehicles which showcased the changing technology used by the cavalry regiment over the centuries.

Serving soldiers, veterans and their families were present to help celebrate the regiment, which fought in the Battle of Waterloo and the Charge of the Light Brigade. There was also an exhibition of historical vehicles, demonstrations of current military capability and a service of thanksgiving.

During the event at Gaza Barracks, a special message was read out from King Abdullah of Jordan, the current Colonel-in-Chief of the Light Dragoons, a role once held by Diana, Princess of Wales.

The Light Dragoons was formed from an amalgamation of historic regiments whose roots date back to the early 18th century, including the Royal Hussars and the Kings Royal Hussars. Their combined history includes the Napoleonic Wars, the Crimean War and the First and Second World Wars.

The Regiment assumed its current form in 1992 and has served in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as Bosnia Herzegovina on peacekeeping duties.

Last year, The Light Dragoons were thanked by Prime Minister David Cameron, after giving up their Christmas holidays to assist the flood relief effort in Yorkshire.

Major Stephen Jordan, who was in charge of planning for the parade, said: “The event is not only a historical anniversary but is also the opportunity to demonstrate the tradition and ethos of the Regiment.”

Major Jordan’s son, Lance Corporal Aaron Jordan, is also in The Light Dragoons – just one of a number of family ties which the Regiment boasts.

A number of these father and son pairings will be at the parade as well as special guests including Commander of the Field Army, Lieutenant General Sir James Everard KCB CBE.

The regiment has strong ties to County Durham and the North-East and principally recruits from the region.