Royal Marines mark 360th anniversary with parade in Gibraltar

The Royal Marines captured the Rock of Gibraltar in 1704 alongside the Dutch and, having accrued so many battle honours in the three and a half centuries since, it is this action that still adorns their world-renowned regimental cap badge. 

The sheer number of additional honours won are symbolised by the great globe itself, an honour bestowed on the Corps by King George IV in 1827. 

It is Rock nonetheless that remains atop the cap badge and was the chosen location for this celebration to mark the 360th anniversary of their formation – which officially lands on the Corps’ birthday on the 28th October. 

To mark this grand anniversary, the Royal Marines Band from the Commando Training Centre, the Royal Marines rugby team and around 140 veterans marched up Main Street from Casemates to John Mackintosh Hall to commemorate their historic freedom of the territory.

They were garbed in full dress uniform and proudly made their way through the Rock, with locals turning out in droves to watch the Bootnecks march by along the streets.  

"The freedom of Gibraltar is very important to all Royal Marines, be that Commandos or Royal Marines Band Service, as it is the main battle honour worn on our insignia," said Sergeant Matt Abbott, the Drum Major for the Commando Training Centre Band based in Lympstone, Devon.

"Marching through the town of Gibraltar behind a band, with colours flying, drums beating, and bayonets fixed always brings a tremendous amount of pride to those serving marines and former Royal Marines.

"The comments made by former Royal Marines: It always makes your chest stick out and the hairs on the back of your neck stand up when you hear a Royal Marines Band play."

The occasion marked both the heritage and the enduring bond between Gibraltar and the Royal Marines, a relationship that dates back to the Siege of Gibraltar in the 18th century and includes their pivotal role in Gibraltar’s defence. 

The public, local officials, and military personnel gathered to witness the spectacle, highlighting the Royal Marines' legacy of duty and honour.