Military Household

The Military Household is responsible for military protocol at the court and maintains non-political contacts with the Ministry of Defence.

It is headed by the Chief of the Military Household.

Aides-de-camp

The Chief of the Military Household, also referred to as the Adjutant General, heads the staff of aides-de-camp, who prepare public appearances by members of the Royal House and assist with major events.

The aides-de-camp are members of the armed forces or the Royal Military Constabulary who have attained the rank of commander or lieutenant colonel. The various branches of the armed forces second these officers to the Court for a period of three years.

The Queen can appoint aides-de-camp extraordinary from among aides-de-camp who have completed their term of service. This means they can be recalled for temporary service in special circumstances.

The letter B

The Adjutant General and the aides-de-camp wear a gold aiguillette (a decoration consisting of intertwined cords) on the right shoulder of their uniforms. On their lapels is the letter B (for Beatrix) and above it a crown.
Since aides-de-camp who are naval officers have anchors on the lapels of their uniforms, the B is displayed on their shoulders.