Kate Middleton shares touching message as she’s replaced at Irish Guards St Patrick’s Day Parade while she recovers
KATE Middleton has shared a touching video to celebrate the work of the Irish Guards ahead of their St Patrick's Day Parade.
The Princess of Wales, who is honorary colonel of the regiment, is sitting out today's celebrations as she recovers from surgery.
Lady Ghika, wife of the regiment's Major General Sir Chris Ghika, is standing in at Mons Barracks in Aldershot, Hants.
The regiment gave a three cheers to absent Kate as they thrust their bearskins into the air as a mark of respect.
In a video of rehearsals shared on the Prince and Princess of Wales' Instagram, the royals said: "Happy St Patrick’s Day!.
"Here’s a sneak peak of the Irish Guards rehearsing for their annual parade.
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"Sláinte to all those celebrating today!"
The video featured proud members of the Irish Guards noting how the parade unites the Household Division regiment.
Lt. Conor Meadows said: "When we're deployed overseas for so much of the year, to bring that all together on one day per year is very special."
Dressed in a plum coat dress, Lady Ghika presented the regiment's mascot, Seamus the Irish Wolfhound, with a shamrock, as is tradition at the parade.
The 2023 St Patrick's Day celebration was Kate's first as honorary colonel, after taking over from Prince William in the role.
She beamed in a turquoise coat and sipped Guinness after paying an emotional tribute to William.
She said: "'I really couldn't be prouder to stand in front of you here today.
"It really is a true honour to be your Colonel. I am here to listen to you, to support you, and to champion you in all you do – this is a responsibility I do not take lightly.
"I look forward to spending more time with you and your families, seeing your commitment to duty and service in all you do.
"Before I close, however, I want to thank Colonel William. He has always talked about his fierce pride for this Regiment.
"I know he will continue to support us all in the work we do."
The Prince of Wales previously said that being Colonel of the Irish Guards was one of the "great honours of my life".
