King Charles III, in his role as Captain General of the Royal Marines, visited the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, marking a historic moment as he welcomed a new generation of commandos and personally presented awards to recruits.
The King observed the passing-out ceremony for 28 recruits of 362 Troop, congratulating them and their families for their dedication and resilience. "As your Captain General, I can only express my pride in each and every one of you, together with my admiration for passing such a demanding course. We are fortunate indeed to rely on you and your supportive families," he said.
A Rare Presentation
For the first time since 1939, a monarch presented the prestigious King’s Badge, awarded to the most outstanding recruit. Marine Stephens, 20, from North Wales, overcame a serious leg injury that delayed his progress for nearly a year. After months of recovery, Stephens returned to training and successfully earned the badge. Reflecting on the honour, he said, “This moment will stay with me forever. Knowing I am only the second Royal Marine to receive this badge from a king is quite overwhelming.”
Triumph Over Adversity
Marine Ryan, 20, from Merseyside, also overcame significant challenges after a shoulder injury delayed his training. His exceptional commitment earned him the Commando Medal, awarded for embodying the Royal Marines' spirit and ethos. In a historic moment, the King presented Ryan with his green beret, a first for a Royal Marine recruit. "Being presented my green beret by the King is the biggest honour I could ever imagine," Ryan said.
Honouring Tradition and Service
During his visit, the King announced the renaming of two key awards to reflect his reign: the Best Marine of the Year is now the King’s Royal Marine of the Year, while the top officer in training will receive The King’s Sword.
The King also toured the training centre, revisiting facilities he trained in 50 years ago as a Royal Navy helicopter pilot. He witnessed recruits tackling the rigorous Tarzan Course, met veterans, instructors, and families, and spoke with Royal Marines who have supported operations in Ukraine.
Among the honoured guests was 100-year-old D-Day veteran Norman Ashford, affectionately known as "grandad" by the Royal Marines. Ashford, who piloted a landing craft during the Normandy landings, recently revisited the beaches for the 80th anniversary.
A Legacy of Leadership
Colonel Innes Catton, Commandant of the Commando Training Centre, described the visit as a proud moment, noting its significance during the Royal Marines' 360th anniversary year. "For the King to present the King’s Badge and green berets and engage with his Marines is an enduring memory for all involved," he said.
As ceremonial head of the Royal Marines, the King continues a family tradition, succeeding his father, Prince Philip, and grandfather, King George VI. His connection to the Corps runs deep, having completed commando training at Lympstone during his naval service.
The Commando Training Centre remains the heart of Royal Marine training, preparing thousands of recruits, officers, and specialists annually for one of the most demanding military roles in the world.
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