Alun Wyn Jones appointed to military role by King Charles III
The former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain is the most capped rugby player in history, with 170 caps for appearances between 2006 and 2023.
He became Wales' 129th captain when he led the side against Italy in the Six Nations tournament in 2009 and is one of only four players to have been selected on four British and Irish Lions tours, achieving 12 caps between 2009 and 2021.
In his new role, the Welsh rugby legend will serve as an ambassador for Wales, taking over the position from Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, the former head of the Army in Wales.
Alun Wyn Jones, who will wear military uniform in this role, said he was "hugely flattered and humbled", but also "a little apprehensive."
'Having played in our great stadium and seeing the men and women in uniform holding our national flag, it was always a significant and poignant symbol of the history and connection to the military in Wales,' he said.
'There was also the iconic Royal Welsh Band serving to provide acoustics in the stadium, which is something that I enjoyed as much as a player as I continue to do now as a fan.
'My apprehension was borne out of the responsibility felt while wearing the red jersey and all that comes with representing our nation.
'Learning more about the history of The Royal Welsh, particularly Sir Tasker Watkins who served in the Welch Regiment and his heroism and commitment to Wales and Welsh rugby, made it something I couldn't turn down.'
He added that he is looking forward to learning more about 3 Royal Welsh and to share his experience of leadership in sport and of leaving one career and moving into another.
'The fact that personnel serving with 3rd Battalion also have day jobs also sparked an awareness that Reservists are all around us in civilian life,' he said.
'Yes, the uniform I'll wear in this role will be very different to what I'm used to, but one I will be equally proud to wear as any jersey in my playing career and represent 3 Royal Welsh and Wales.'
Colonel of the Regiment, Major General Chris Barry CBE, added: 'I am proud to welcome Alun Wyn Jones to the Regimental family as the Honorary Colonel of 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh – a position that has been personally approved by our Colonel in Chief, King Charles III.
'It is an honour for us to bring into the fold a true Welsh warrior, who has served and led the national rugby team of Wales and The British and Irish Lions and the most capped rugby player in history.
'We now look forward to building a long-lasting, two-way relationship between our 3rd Battalion and Alun Wyn Jones.
'The Regimental Headquarters, on behalf of all ranks of The Royal Welsh, would like to thank the outgoing Honorary Colonel of 3 Royal Welsh, Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, for more than 11 years of outstanding leadership and service to the Regimental family. We wish him all the very best for the future.'
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