Alun Wyn Jones appointed to Royal Welsh military role by King
In his role, Jones will wear military uniform and serve as an ambassador for Wales, "inspiring current and future generations" of The Royal Welsh."It is an honour for us to bring into the fold a true Welsh warrior," said Maj Gen Chris Barry, colonel of the regiment.
The battalion supports the regular Army in its operations, including deploying soldiers abroad.Jones said that during his time playing rugby that seeing the men and women in uniform holding Wales' national flag "was always a significant and poignant symbol of the history and connection to the military in Wales"."My apprehension was borne out of the responsibility felt while wearing the red jersey and all that comes with representing our nation," he said.He said that learning about the history of the The Royal Welsh meant it was "something I couldn't turn down"."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 added.
Brig Wardle, for former head of the Army in Wales and outgoing honorary colonel, said there is "no set job description" in the role but its main task "is to support the battalion in any way possible"."The main role though is to see what reservists do, to listen to their stories and to encourage them and to be a positive role model."Alun Wyn has a history of service to his country, and he has widely-recognised leadership qualities - I can't think of a more fitting person to enthuse, motivate and inspire the battalion than him," he said.
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