Norwegian Royal Guard Suffers Under Heatwave While On Duty

The men and women of the Norwegian Royal Guard are trained to face a variety of different scenarios. But a heatwave? That wasn’t on the list – which makes sense if you consider Norway’s typical cold climate. But with the abnormally high temperatures lately (this May was the warmest in 100 years), steps had to be taken to ensure the well-being of the soldiers on duty.

A 162-year tradition

The Norwegian Royal Guard has been protecting the King since 1856. What started as the “Royal Norwegian Company of Marksmen” in Stockholm – while the union between Norway and Sweden still held – evolved into His Majesty The King’s Guard (Hans Majestet Kongens Garde) in Oslo after the union was dissolved. Nowadays the Royal Guard, which comprises both men and women (just like every other division of Norway’s military forces), is stationed outside the Royal Palace, Skaugum Estate, Bygdø Royal Farm, Akershus Fortress and Huseby military camp, 24/7, all year long. The changing of the guard has a ceremonial aspect, whereas drill exercises supervised by HRM King Harald V are being held throughout the year and a parade takes place in the summer. For the most part though, the guard stands straight and sits real still. Until this spring.

The Royal Guard stationed outside the Royal Palace

The heatwave that took everyone by surprise

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