Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry members honour former Colonel-in-Chief Lady Patricia Brabourne

Several members of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) were given the chance to honour the widely-admired Colonel-in-Chief Lady Patricia Brabourne, The Countess Mountbatten of Burma, as a member of the bearer party at her funeral on June 27.

Countess Mountbatten served as the second colonel-in-chief of PPCLI for more than 30 years. She gave up the reigns to the current colonel-in-chief in 2007.

“She had a place in the regiment’s hearts. As our second colonel-in-chief, her passing was a significant hit to the morale of the regiment,” said Maj. Jason Hudson, member of the 2nd Battalion, PPCLI.

Lady Patricia Edwina Victoria Knatchbull, 2nd Countess Mountbatten of Burma, was born on Feb. 14, 1924. She was a British peeress and third cousin of Queen Elizabeth II.

She succeeded her father when he was assassinated in 1979 and inherited the title of countess, and a sat in the House of Lords, where she served until 1999.

She died peacefully on June 13 surrounded by her children.

Considering their strong attachment to Lady Patricia, members of the 2nd Battalion, who happened to already be in England, wanted to do their part at her funeral. Fifteen members of the Battalion were able to serve as pallbearers or on the honour guard.

“She had a strong affection for the regiment, primarily the lower ranks: the privates, corporals, and a genuine interest in their families’ welfare as well. She was greatly admired by all ranks,” said Hudson.