Colonel John Cameron-Hayes gave a talk on the history of the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery on Monday 30th June. This is part of four main regiments, the other three being the 1st Tidworth, 3rd Germany and the 7t Para. These three have all seen active service.
The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery, based at St. Johns Wood, consists of 6 officers, 120 horses and 180 soldiers. When in displays, there are three sections, a section being composed of two guns weighing 1-½ tonnes each. St. Johns Wood has been used as a base for horse artilleries since 1880.
The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery was formed in 1945 when the King wanted a troop for displays a state occasions. The artillery, when participating in shows fires 41 guns when in London but 21 guns everywhere else.
King George died on the 6th February 1952 and the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired a salute to the King on the 7th. A round was fired for every year of his reign. On the 8th, 41 guns were fired for the proclamation of the Queen.
When Queen Elizabeth came to the throne, she was asked if she would like to change the name to The Queens Troop Royal Horse Artillery, however, she was more than happy to leave it with here fathers original designation.
Displays have taken place around the world including Denmark, Germany, Canada and Italy.
Every Sergeant Major is sent on a course for training horses, which lasts for 6 months.
During the national service, the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery got several Jockeys.
A vote of thanks given by committee member Sue Broughton.