BARNSLEY soldier Sam Grist is having a change of scene in more ways than one.
She has swapped her base in Germany for royal duty in London.
And, for the first time, she has also been on Changing of the Guard duties at Buckingham Palace.
Gunner Sam, who is from Grimethorpe, is part of a 95-strong detachment responsible for the royal guard for the Queen at the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, St James’ Palace and Buckingham Palace. Asked about her first time on the world-famous Changing of the Guard, she said: “It felt like it was a different world with thousands of people watching what we are doing.
“Absolutely amazing, but nerve-wracking.
“I was so proud to take part in what is perhaps a once in a lifetime occasion.”
Sam, who is 22 and went to Willowgarth School, joined the Army in 2012 on the recommendation of her ex-serviceman brother.
And she has never looked back. A keen Nordic skier, she has represented her regiment and the Royal Artillery and succeeded in getting into team GB in 2016.
“It is fantastic that the Army supports me,” said Sam, who returns to her base in Gutersloh this month.
“Then it’s back to military training and exercises before her regiment re-bases to the UK next year.
Sam is with the 159 (Colenso) Battery, 26th Regiment Royal Artillery.
