HAC on Parade
There are plenty of opportunities for members of the public to view the HAC Regiment
and the Ceremonial Sub-Units on parade. The regular events in which they participate
in London are as follows:
The Company plays a major part in the Lord Mayor's annual Procession, or 'the
Lord Mayor's Show' as it is more commonly known. A Marching Detachment and the
Band from the Regiment have a part in the Procession, while the Pikemen &
Musketeers escort the Lord Mayor's Coach and the Light Cavalry escort the Lady
Mayoress. The HAC Special Constabulary Detachment assist in providing security.
The marshals who help to organise and manage the Show include members of the HAC.
Gun Salutes
In 1924, when the Regular detachment from the Royal Artillery stationed at HM
Tower of London was disbanded, the HAC took over the task of firing the salutes
from this Royal Fortress. Since 1931, when the appointment was revived, the Regimental
Colonel has filled the post of 'Master Gunner Within The Tower' and presides over
the ceremony.
Whilst a Royal Salute normally comprises 21 guns, increased to 41 if fired from
a Royal Residence, 62 rounds are fired from the Tower on Royal anniversaries,
and 41 on Royal or State occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament. The
saluting Detachment, which continues to be addressed as "(Number) Squadron, Honourable
Artillery Company, Royal Horse Artillery" in recognition of the affiliation of
the former artillery division of the HAC with the RHA, is raised from each Squadron
and the Liaison Troop in turn.
State visits
Since the State Visit of the King of Denmark in 1768, the HAC has provided Guards
of Honour for members of the Royal Family and for visiting Heads of State or Commonwealth
Prime Ministers. There are normally two State Visits per year and on each occasion
the Lord Mayor holds a banquet in the visitor's honour. The Queen's Colour is
used on all occasions when Her Majesty or Her Representative is present. The
Regimental Colour is used at other times.
Remembrance Day
On Remembrance Sunday, the Regiment provides a Marching Detachment, the Band
and the Corps of Drums, who march from St Paul's Cathedral to the Royal Exchange.
The Regiment also provides Markers and Guides at the Royal Exchange, and Detachments
at the War Memorials at Sadlers Wells and Islington.







