King Frederik presents his first royal ceremonial flag

King Frederik X of Denmark has presented his first royal ceremonial flag to the Royal Life Guards, continuing a centuries-old tradition, state broadcaster DR reports.

The flag, bearing the king’s personal monogram, was handed over during a ceremony at the Høvelte Barracks on Wednesday. The Royal Life Guards received the honour as the first regiment, reflecting its historic ties to the monarchy.

A royal ceremonial flag symbolises a regiment’s history, honour, and unity. Historically, such flags were used on battlefields to identify regiments, but today they are primarily used for official visits, parades, and military ceremonies.

During the presentation, three nails were driven into the flag—one for the king, one for the nation, and one for the regiment. The flag also features the Danish flag (Dannebrog), the regiment’s name, and the monarch’s monogram.

The ceremony marks the beginning of a series of flag presentations by the king. Following a change of monarch, all nine army regiments receive new royal ceremonial flags, with the new sovereign traditionally overseeing the inaugurations.

The Royal Life Guards first received a ceremonial flag in 1663 under King Frederik III.