| 06 July 2012
Vigilance can report that Service personnel from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force will be raising flags at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Individuals from all three services will take on the role of flag bearers for more than 100 Team Welcome and 805 Victory Ceremonies, and training for this prestigious honour is currently taking place at HMS Collingwood in Fareham, Hampshire.
A source at the MoD said personnel from all three Services are being refreshed in basic drill and trained in the art of ceremonial flag raising, adding they are also undergoing rigorous Dress Inspections to ensure they will be turned out in their ceremonial day uniforms to the highest standard.
Heading up the ceremonial team responsible for the training is Lieutenant Commander Jon Glass. He said: "Flags are a major part of Naval tradition. It is an honour to be responsible for the training of the military Flag Raisers for this once in a lifetime opportunity. The professionalism of our Armed Forces will be showcased in front of an international audience who will witness both the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Seb Coe, LOCOG Chair added: “The flag raising duties at Olympic and Paralympic Games are seen as an honour but we are in fact honoured to have these inspirational men and women be part of London 2012.”
In total 176 Service personnel will raise flags during the Games period, and have been selected by their Service because they have a sporting connection, have shone on operations or have strong links within the community