A soldier from the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery received a funeral with full military honors following a tragic incident at the Royal Windsor Horse Show. Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan, aged 24, sustained fatal injuries after falling from her horse during a ceremony on May 15. The commemoration took place at The Guards’ Chapel in Central London, where family, friends, and military colleagues gathered to honor her.
Her casket, transported on a World War I gun carriage, was met with solemn fanfares by state trumpeters from The Band of the Household Cavalry. Subsequently, a three-round volley was fired in Wellington Barracks, and L/Bdr Sullivan’s personal effects were handed to her family, including her cap and medals. Tradition was observed as her horse Neymar carried her riding boots in a reversed position in the stirrups.
Flags across Army establishments in London flew at half-mast to pay tribute to L/Bdr Sullivan. Floral arrangements spelling out “Sully,” her affectionate nickname, were displayed alongside images of her in uniform riding her horse.
A representative from Buckingham Palace expressed the King’s grief over the soldier’s passing and confirmed his intention to offer condolences to her family. Although present at the time of the incident, Charles and other royal family members were unaware of its severity until later.
Described as an outstanding jockey with a natural affinity for horses, L/Bdr Sullivan was remembered by her commanding officer as a beacon of positivity within The Troop. She joined the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery in June 2021 after training at the Army Training Centre in Pirbright.
Known for her dedication to the troop and her expertise in horse training, L/Bdr Sullivan had recently achieved advanced regimental riding instructor certification. She was actively involved in various ceremonial operations, including Royal Gun Salutes in London’s Hyde Park and Green Park.
Passionate about all aspects of The Troop, L/Bdr Sullivan was involved in show jumping and The Troop Race, offering riding lessons to fellow mounted gunners and instructing officers. Her commitment and enthusiasm for her duties were widely recognized within the Ministry of Defence.
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