Auld Lang Syne is heard outside New Year's celebrations. Royal Navy officers hear it at their passing-out parade as they march up the steps of Britannia Royal Naval College. It is also played for Royal Air Force officers at Cranwell and at the Sovereign's Parade at Sandhurst, placing it within comparable British service ceremonies. Its themes invite officers to remember old friends, thank those still with them, remember those they have lost, and look forward to new friendships.
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Why the Royal Navy plays Auld Lang Syne at passing-out parades
Royal Navy officers hear Auld Lang Syne as they march up the steps at Britannia Royal Naval College. Its themes of remembrance and future friendship suit the passing-out parade.