The Welsh Rugby Union Pledge Support to the Armed Forces Community
The Welsh Rugby Union has formally joined a network of more than 700 Welsh employers to pledge support to the armed forces community. The historic signing ceremony took place at Cardiff Castle on Tuesday 8 September 2026. WRU representatives attended as honoured guests for the 21 Gun Salute marking Accession Day.
This event celebrated the anniversary of His Majesty King Charles III’s accession to the throne.
The occasion featured live music from the Regimental Band and Corps of Drums of The 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh. Lance Corporal Shenkin, the Regimental Goat of the 3rd Battalion, was also in attendance. He was accompanied by the Goat Major, Sergeant Mark Jackson, adding a unique ceremonial element to the proceedings.
Terry Cobner, president of the WRU, emphasised the deep-rooted connection between the sport and the military. He stated: “We are proud to support the armed forces community in this way.” Welsh rugby has a long and positive association with the 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh in particular, with Shenkin the Regimental Goat an important fixture as our official mascot on match days at the Principality Stadium and the Regimental Band also a regular feature.
Those who serve or have served in the UK armed forces and their families are always welcome in Welsh rugby.
Brigadier Mark Davis CBE, Commander of the Army in Wales and Vice-Chair of the Army Rugby Union, highlighted the shared values between the two institutions. He remarked: “Rugby is the Army’s game.” It demanded courage under pressure, discipline, respect and an unshakeable commitment to the team.
These values are shared by Welsh rugby and our armed forces, reflecting a relationship forged over generations. By signing the AFC, the WRU is putting those values into action and standing with our whole armed forces community.
The Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) represents a national promise that those who serve or have served in the UK armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. In Wales, the programme is delivered by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales’ Defence Relationship Managers. They operate on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to ensure consistent support across the region.
Across the United Kingdom, some 13,000 organisations have signed up to the AFC, including a growing number in Wales. The 21 Gun Salute at Cardiff Castle was delivered by reservists from 104 Regiment Royal Artillery. These individuals are among 1,400 reservists currently serving in Wales, contributing significantly to national defence capabilities.
These reservists come from diverse backgrounds and give up their spare time to train and serve alongside regular personnel. Their dedication ensures the armed forces remain robust and ready for various operational requirements. The presence of these units at the castle underscored the active role of the reserve force in Welsh society.
Mr Craig Middle, the MOD’s Defence Relationship Manager for South Wales, expressed satisfaction with the WRU’s decision. He said: “We are delighted that the WRU has shown its support to the armed forces community.” The number of organisations signing the Covenant is continuing to grow at an encouraging rate in Wales and indicates a positive outlook for the armed forces community.
The collaboration between Welsh rugby and the military continues to strengthen through such high-profile events. The presence of the Regimental Goat and band at the Principality Stadium remains a beloved tradition. This new pledge further cements the bond between the sporting community and those who defend the nation.
The event at Cardiff Castle served as a powerful reminder of the mutual respect between these groups. As more Welsh employers join the AFC, the support network for service personnel expands. This growing coalition ensures that the needs of the armed forces community are met with fairness and recognition.
Eli Nathan
Eli Nathan covers Wales news, politics, community stories, and sports for The National Wales (thenational.wales).
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