Amongst the oldest Armies in Europe (only England, France, Spain and Portugal are older in terms of countries still in existence) the Byddin Frenhiniol Gymreig (Royal Welsh Army) has seen substantial changes over the years. It has been influenced by many outside agencies. For most of its history it has paralleled the British Army, both in regimental and organisational matters. In the 20th Century the notable influences have been the Germans in the thirties and the United States from the 1950’s onwards. From the largely volunteer organisation of the Great War era to the conscripted army of the 1950s (National Service), it has settled again onto a volunteer based system. There are approx 25,000 soldiers in the Army, 11,000 regulars and 14,000 in the reserve Militias.
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| - Royal Welsh Army (Welsh History Post Glyndwr)
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| - Amongst the oldest Armies in Europe (only England, France, Spain and Portugal are older in terms of countries still in existence) the Byddin Frenhiniol Gymreig (Royal Welsh Army) has seen substantial changes over the years. It has been influenced by many outside agencies. For most of its history it has paralleled the British Army, both in regimental and organisational matters. In the 20th Century the notable influences have been the Germans in the thirties and the United States from the 1950’s onwards. From the largely volunteer organisation of the Great War era to the conscripted army of the 1950s (National Service), it has settled again onto a volunteer based system. There are approx 25,000 soldiers in the Army, 11,000 regulars and 14,000 in the reserve Militias.
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| abstract
| - Amongst the oldest Armies in Europe (only England, France, Spain and Portugal are older in terms of countries still in existence) the Byddin Frenhiniol Gymreig (Royal Welsh Army) has seen substantial changes over the years. It has been influenced by many outside agencies. For most of its history it has paralleled the British Army, both in regimental and organisational matters. In the 20th Century the notable influences have been the Germans in the thirties and the United States from the 1950’s onwards. From the largely volunteer organisation of the Great War era to the conscripted army of the 1950s (National Service), it has settled again onto a volunteer based system. There are approx 25,000 soldiers in the Army, 11,000 regulars and 14,000 in the reserve Militias. The Army remains much like its cousins across the Bristol Channel in ethos and operation. However, prolonged exposure to US troops that were based in the country until the late 80’s has had an effect. Welsh soldiers wear US style uniform, salute in the American style and much of the equipment used is of US or Canadian manufacture. The current Commander of the Army is Field Marshal Alun ap Grufydd Cleddyf-Gof. A former Infantry officer, he brings a tenacity and massive experience to the post having fought in the 60s alongside the US Army and on operations in the first Gulf War. And whilst remaining a staunch supporter of the Government he does not hesitate to protect the rights and quality of life for his charges. Welsh Troops are amongst the most respected in the world. They combine the natural Celtic aggression with a professionalism only equaled by that of the Irish Defence Force and the British Army. This makes them an automatic choice for any commander fortunate enough to find them in his command.
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