23/04/2024
🏴 Happy St George’s Day
St George
The Patron Saint of England
Died 303 AD
The feast day of St George has been celebrated in England for hundreds of years on 23 April, which was possibly the date of his martyrdom. Following the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, St George's Day became one of the most important feast days in the English calendar.
St George was a high-ranking officer in the Roman army who protested against the Romans' torture of Christians. Roman emperor Diocletian ordered his death for failing to recant his faith.
The Soldier Saint of the Military
St George has long been regarded as a military saint, known as the patron of soldiers.
English regiments and soldiers hold dear the knightly virtues associated with the ‘soldier saint’ - steadfast courage, honour, fortitude in adversity, faith and charity - and celebrate St George's Day wherever they are in the world.
His importance to English soldiers is noted as far back as 1100 when it is said the English army sought the Saint’s protection. Ever since then, St George has inspired many soldiers as they headed into battle.
William Shakespeare gives St George mention in ‘Henry V, Act III, Scene I’, as the monarch shouts his famous battle cry, “Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more … God for Harry! England! and St George!” at the Siege of Harfleur in 1415 during the Hundred Years War.
🏴 Have a Happy St George’s Day 🏴
