Former British Army corporal Esala Vukitoga stood out wearing a kilt, during the memorial service for the late Queen Elizabeth II at the Holy Trinity Angli­can Church in Suva on Friday

A kilt is a knee-length skirt-like garment that is worn by men as a major element of the traditional national garb of Scotland.

The Kadavu lad served at the Royal Regiment of Scotland for four years. In 2001, he was told to guard the Balmoral Castle while on duty.

Balmoral Castle was where the late Queen Elizabeth II died last week.

Corporal Vukitoga told Fiji Sun that he wore a kilt to hon­our Queen Elizabeth II as he served under her for 14 years.

“The kilt that I am wearing today is the same one that I wore while being on guard duty at the Balmoral in 2001,” he said.

“I have met face-to-face with all the royal families, includ­ing King Charles III. Also, I have conversed with the late Queen Elizabeth II.

“During my four years at the Royal Regiment of Scotland, I was told to be on guard duty at the Baltimore Palace. I con­versed with the queen while on duty.

“She would say hello and questioned how our day was. The guards do not just perform ceremonial duties at the Balmor­al Castle.

“We also take an active role in protecting our sovereignty. It is an experience unlike no other, it’s something that I will never forget,” he said.

He said he received a medal from the late Queen Elizabeth II to acknowledge his years of service at the British Army.

Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj