Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to include 250 members of the Armed Forces in royal wedding, Kensington Palace confirms

'It is a happy occasion for the whole country'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s impending nuptials are set to include 250 members of the Armed Forces, Kensington Palace revealed on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the Armed Forces will provide ceremonial support at the royal wedding, which is due to take place in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle on May 19.

“Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle are pleased that members of the Armed Forces will play such a special role in their Wedding,” the Palace said in a statement.

Units invited to participate will be ones that “hold a special relationship with Prince Harry” including servicemen and women from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Air Force.

“The Military, and these units in particular, hold a great significance for Prince Harry and the couple are incredibly grateful for their support,” the statement continues.

Prince Harry served in the Army for 10 years, joining The Blues and Royals in April 2006, serving under the Household Cavalry Regiment and undertaking two tours of Afghanistan during this time.

In December 2017 he was appointed Captain General Royal Marines, succeeding the Duke of Edinburgh.

On the day of the wedding, the palace have said that members of the Household Cavalry will form a staircase party at the chapel.

“The State Trumpeters and a Captain’s Escort from the Household Cavalry will also provide ceremonial support," they added.

Members of the Windsor Castle Guard from 1st Battalion Irish Guards will also line the surrounding streets in addition to Armed Forces personnel from a total of five units.

In response to the announcement of military inclusion, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, chief of Defence Staff at the Ministry of Defence, said that he is thrilled the Armed Forces will be included in such a momentous national occasion.

“I am proud that members of the Armed Forces have been asked to take part in the ceremonial celebrations taking place on the royal couple’s wedding day,” he said.

“It is a happy occasion for the whole country and reminds us of the role the Armed Forces play in marking important events in the life of the nation.”