Regiment's birthday marked at the foot of Tommy as Army veterans gather for St George's Day

The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers was established on April 23, 1968, from four former English Fusilier Regiments.

They included the Royal Northumberland Fusilier’s – formerly the 5th of Foot – which can be traced back 300 years and has its roots here in our region.

Until recently the Regiment consisted of 3 Regular Battalions and Two Reserve, and today consists of one regular battalion and one reserve battalion, with the Fusiliers involved in nearly every conflict since the end of the

Second World War.

Around 25 of members of the Sunderland Branch of the Fusiliers Association joined in the event on the eve of the milestone day, reading the regiment’s prayer and holding a two minute silence to remember all those who have served and been lost.

They added red and white roses in their berets to celebrate the day and were joined by other supporters, friends and family, who also paid their respects.

It was organised by the branch’s secretary Captain Alex Hendry, who is now a full-time employee of Durham Cadet Force.

He said: “It’s the regiment’s birthday, so obviously we recognise that day to celebrate it and be proud of what we are a part of and remember those who went before us.

"The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers is family regiment with the saying ‘Once a Fusilier always a Fusilier’, therefore, when a Fusilier leaves the regiment they don’t leave the family.

"They become association members and can join one of the many association branches over the country.”

Sunderland’s branch meets on the first Thursday of each month in the Gunners Club in Mary Street, gathering at 7.30pm for an 8pm start.

It is aiming to return to its meetings from June and increase its activities as the lockdown continues to ease.

A Fusilier can be identified by their red and white hackle worn in the beret in all forms of uniform and is a battle honour won with distinction at St Lucia 1778 by the 5th of Foot.

A tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh remains at the base of Tommy following his death earlier this month.

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