The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh made history today by becoming the first members of the Royal Family to attend the annual Gurkha attestation parade, a landmark moment for young Nepalis joining the British army.

Sophie and Edward joined new recruits and their families at the conclusion of the hour-long ceremony, congratulating the men for their impressive achievement. 

In a moving speech, the Prince said: “Always remember you are a soldier in the British army but you are a son of Nepal. Be proud of both.”

The parade marks the end of the highly competitive selection process, with just 275 graduating today after 13,000 applicants.

It sees take the oath of allegiance and hand over control of the parade from British Gurkhas Nepal to the training officer of Gurkha Training Company, signifying the moment that the recruits are officially under command ‘in the Army’.

Edward told them: “You are joining a regimental family… with a reputation for loyalty, service and courage.” 

He added: “I am impressed that of the 13,000 aspiring recruits you have made it. you deserve to feel very proud of your achievement 

“Your family ought to be very proud of you.”

The couple joined the medal presentations, to existing service personnel.

 The parade celebrates the shared history and more than 200- year partnership between the UK and Nepal and the service of Gurkhas in the British Army, as well as the opportunity it offers to young Nepalis.

Edward and Sophie arrived at British Gurkhas Pokhara, and were received by Colonel Dan Rex, Commander British Gurkhas Nepal and joined General Strickland, Colonel Commandant of the Brigade of Gurkhas to inspect the ranks on the parade square to a medley of Lady Gaga songs played by the military band.

The couple, with the reviewing party, then presented 38 coronation medals and two long service and good conduct medals to Gurkha and British Staff on parade, with Sophie and Edward presenting 10 medals each.

After Buddhist and Hindu prayers, the trainee riflemen took the attestation oath. In files of four, the trainee riflemen marched to the tables, saluted a portrait of the King, touched the Union Flag, saluted again and marched off. 

Following the parade, the duke and duchess met some of the new intake of Gurkhas and their families to celebrate their achievements. 

It’s an incredible moment of pride for the families, but tinged with sadness as they say goodbye to their sons before their flight to the UK on Monday. They will not be reunited again for another nine months, but for many it’s more likely to be after one-two years of service.