Commencing the Changing of the Guard

The Ceremonial Guard performed the first Changing of the Guard ceremony for the 2015 season earlier this week on Parliament Hill.

The ceremony, now entering its 57th year, is Ottawa’s most recognized military tradition, and is a summer event that has attracted thousands of visitors to Parliament Hill.

“This Canadian military icon is composed of Regular and Reserve Force members and includes soldiers from regiments across this nation,” said Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, commander, Canadian Army. “I take great pride in knowing that these fully-trained soldiers are sharing this military tradition and ceremony with fellow Canadians and visitors to the National Capital Region. They represent our very best: strong, proud and ready.”

In addition to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, members of the Ceremonial Guard began sentry duties at Rideau Hall, the Residence of the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, with hourly guard changes every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Ceremonial Guard performed the first Changing of the Guard ceremony for the 2015 season earlier this week on Parliament Hill.

According to Brigadier-General Lowell Thomas, commander, 4th Canadian Division. The Changing of the Guard is an honoured institution that highlights the pageantry, precision and colour of the Ceremonial Guard. The Ceremonial Guard is one of the ways the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is able to engage Canadians and celebrate military traditions with them.

All the members of the Ceremonial Guard are fully-trained members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), many with deployments on international operations. Soldiers from more than 70 Canadian Army regiments make up the 2015 Ceremonial Guard.

“The execution of public duties, like the Changing of the Guard, demands dedication, patience and an unparalleled commitment to military service. Performing on Parliament Hill is an honour for all soldiers and musicians on parade,” said Major Michel Lavigne, commanding officer, Ceremonial Guard.

The Band of the Ceremonial Guard is part of the CAF Primary Reserves. It forms each year to provide musical support for the Changing of the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill.

The first Guard Mount took place on Parliament Hill on July 2, 1959.

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