Hundreds of school children and islanders gathered to welcome King Charles to Bermuda in a ceremony full of pomp and pageantry. The King stood in the heart of the British overseas territory's former capital, St George's, for the event watched by a large crowd.
Ceremonial Welcome in King's Square
A 21-gun salute heralded Charles's arrival in the aptly named King's Square on Friday. A guard of honour was waiting, and he was received by the Commanding Officer of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Simons. The King stood on a dais as the royal salute was given by the troops and remained motionless as the national anthem was played by a regimental band.
Inspection of the Guard
Parade Commander Major Kenji Bean invited the King to inspect the guard of honour, and he walked with Charles as he strode past the troops. After the official welcome, the King went to meet the crowds, shaking hands with well-wishers as the military band played Bob Marley and the Wailers song "Jamming."
Royal Visit Context
Charles arrived in Bermuda on Thursday evening after a four-day state visit to America, where he helped put the UK-US special relationship on a firmer footing. The monarchy's soft power diplomacy is seen as its strongest weapon in support of the UK's overseas interests, and it appears his host President Donald Trump was won over. A parting gift came from the US leader, who lifted tariffs on Scottish whisky after an intervention by the Queen and King.
Islanders' Enthusiasm
Some of the islanders had come prepared for the royal visit. One little boy, Theo Godfrey, aged four, was dressed like a guardsman in a red tunic and imitation bearskin hat. Many of the children lining the square waved Union flags. His mother purchased the outfit from the official Buckingham Palace shop two years ago and joked, "He's worn it ever since!"
