**Alun Wyn Jones Appointed Honorary Colonel by King Charles, Shares His Reflections on New Role**
Alun Wyn Jones, the iconic former Wales rugby union captain and record-holding international player, has taken on a new chapter in public service with his appointment as Honorary Colonel of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh. The prestigious role was officially bestowed upon him by His Majesty King Charles III. This appointment marks a significant transition for Jones, whose legacy on the rugby pitch has already secured him a place in Welsh sporting history.
Jones, now 38, holds the distinction of being the most capped rugby player in the world, having represented Wales and the British and Irish Lions in an extraordinary total of 170 international matches between 2006 and 2023. His on-field leadership, resilience, and commitment are attributes he is now being called upon to channel in a military context—serving as a bridge between Welsh rugby’s inspirational heritage and the traditions of The Royal Welsh regiment.
In his new position, Jones replaces Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, who has served the regiment for over a decade. Major General Chris Barry CBE, Colonel of the Regiment, expressed pride in Jones’ appointment, noting that it was personally sanctioned by King Charles, the regiment’s Colonel-in-Chief. He underscored the value Jones will bring, describing him as a “true Welsh warrior” whose outstanding sports career has inspired not only his teammates but the nation as a whole.
The role of Honorary Colonel is ceremonial but immensely symbolic, with Jones expected to foster a spirit of teamwork and leadership among both full-time soldiers and the reservists of the battalion. It is a role that carries significant expectations, a fact not lost on Jones himself. Despite his formidable track record, he admits to feeling a sense of apprehension as he takes on this new mantle, citing the weight of responsibility inherent in “wearing the red jersey”—and now, the military uniform.
Reflecting on his appointment, Jones stated he was “hugely flattered and humbled,” yet “a little apprehensive.” He recounted the pride he has always felt upon seeing members of the armed forces represented at Welsh rugby matches, and the deep sense of history and shared values between the military and sporting communities in Wales. Jones highlighted the powerful image of servicemen and women presenting the national flag at the Principality Stadium, as well as the stirring performances by the Royal Welsh Band.
Jones’ respect for the regiment’s history was underscored by his admiration for figures such as Sir Tasker Watkins, the decorated war hero and Welsh rugby president. “Learning about the stories of heroism and commitment within The Royal Welsh gave this opportunity a deeper meaning for me,” he remarked. The new Honorary Colonel sees his role as a chance not just for personal growth, but to help inspire soldiers and civilians as they navigate service, personal development, and career transitions.
The unique nature of the 3rd Battalion, whose members often serve as reservists while maintaining civilian professions, particularly struck a chord with Jones. “It sparked an awareness that the strengths found in sport—teamwork, discipline, resilience—are mirrored in the armed forces, often among people we encounter in everyday life,” he observed.
In conclusion, Jones signalled his determination to bring lessons learned from elite sport to his military role, while learning from those he will represent. “The uniform I’ll wear now is very different from what I’ve been used to, but I will wear it with the same pride I showed on the pitch.”
Since retiring from international rugby, Jones has continued to work as a Strategic Advisor at Swansea University, focusing on values of performance, resilience and leadership. His achievements include being voted Six Nations Player of the Tournament in 2019, twice shortlisted for World Player of the Year, and holding an impressive array of Championships, Grand Slams and Triple Crowns.
The appointment of Alun Wyn Jones as Honorary Colonel brings together two proud Welsh traditions—rugby and military service—symbolising the enduring links between national identity, service, and leadership. As he steps into this new chapter, Jones’ own reflections and ambitions suggest that his influence in Welsh public life is far from over.