Quote Originally Posted by Bruce Scott View Post
Yes, that is most likely it. My first impression was that their was something amiss with their dress. It seemed almost as though they were off on a stroll rather than a formal inspection of a guard. It is not that they are too informal - lounge suits are quite often worn on such occasions - but the walking sticks and whatever Edward has in his right hand lend a greater degree of informality, I think. Nothing wrong with that. They are, after all, on holiday.
I think you will find that he is holding a Glengarry in his hand and as there is no 'civilian salute', he has removed it to review the troops. The royal party were possibly passing the colours so he would have removed his hat or the band might have been playing the first six (or is it eight) bars of the national anthem. At that time men, in civilian dress, removed their hats during the playing of the National Anthem.

We will never know for sure, but we can surmise.

Regards

Chas