Welsh Rugby Union Commits to Supporting Armed Forces Community

Terry Cobner, the President of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), and Abi Tierney, the Chief Executive Officer of the WRU, recently signed the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) alongside Brigadier Mark Davis CBE, who serves as the Commander of the 160th (Welsh) Brigade and Head of the Army in Wales.

This significant event took place at Cardiff Castle on Tuesday, 8 September 2026. During the occasion, the WRU representatives were honoured guests at a 21 Gun Salute to commemorate Accession Day, marking the anniversary of His Majesty King Charles III’s ascension to the throne.

Guests were treated to a performance by the Regimental Band and Corps of Drums of The 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh. Notably, Lance Corporal Shenkin, the Regimental Goat of the 3rd Battalion, along with the Goat Major, Sergeant Mark Jackson, graced the event with their presence.

Support for the Armed Forces Community

Terry Cobner expressed pride in the WRU’s commitment to supporting the armed forces community. He remarked, “Welsh rugby has a long and positive association with the 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh in particular, with Shenkin the Regimental Goat an important fixture as our official mascot on match days at the Principality Stadium. Those who serve or have served in the UK armed forces and their families are always welcome in Welsh rugby.”

Brigadier Mark Davis CBE emphasized the shared values between rugby and the armed forces. He noted that rugby epitomises qualities such as courage under pressure, discipline, respect, and unwavering commitment to teamwork. By signing the AFC, the WRU not only acknowledges these values but actively stands in solidarity with the entire armed forces community.

Understanding the Armed Forces Covenant

The Armed Forces Covenant serves as a pledge from the nation, ensuring that those who have served in the UK armed forces, along with their families, are treated fairly. In Wales, the programme is managed by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales’ Defence Relationship Managers, operating on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Across the UK, approximately 13,000 organisations have committed to the AFC, with an increasing number participating in Wales.

Celebrating the 21 Gun Salute

The 21 Gun Salute was executed by reservists from the 104 Regiment Royal Artillery, who are part of a larger group of 1,400 reservists serving in Wales. These individuals come from varied backgrounds and dedicate their spare time to train and serve alongside regular armed forces personnel.

Craig Middle, the MOD’s Defence Relationship Manager for South Wales, expressed satisfaction with the WRU’s demonstration of support for the armed forces community. He noted that the growing number of organisations signing the Covenant reflects a positive trend for the armed forces community in Wales.