Three servicewomen marched into history at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Sovereign’s Parade – becoming the first all-female banner party to participate in the event.
WO2 Cally Brunton and SSgt Louise Bradley (both RAMS) plus SSgt Jodie Lewis (RAVC) carried out the prestigious role as 239 officer cadets marked the end of 44 weeks’ intensive training.
As company sergeant major of the intake’s best-performing platoon, WO2 Brunton had the honour of carrying the sovereign’s banner, which was presented to the academy by King Charles in 2023.
And in an exception to the usual rule excluding medical personnel from carrying bayonets, SSgt Bradley was given special permission to do so in symbolic protection of the banner. WO2 Brunton told Soldier the task had been “a great privilege”.
“Having been with 18 Platoon, Ypres Company from day one of junior term, it was rewarding all round to watch the commissioning course march up the steps of Old College for the final time after months of hard work”, she added.
Inspecting the proceedings on behalf of the King was the Duchess of Edinburgh.
The new officers will now go on to complete trade training and join their designated regiments. OCdt Maya Sheryn, who is headed for The Royal Dragoon Guards, said the parade was “awesome and emotional”.
