If you’ve ever wondered what is happening outside the Castle of Good Hope, while the massed military bands inside the arena are playing the 1812 Overture at the Cape Town Military Tattoo – this video taken by fellow photie Brent Best will give you some insight into the complicated process of ensuring that the Cape Field Artillery Saluting Troop fires their 25-pounder guns at precisely the right moment.
Staff Sergeant Andrew Imrie, who also happens to be the Pipe Major of the Cape Field Artillery Pipes and Drums, is the fire control officer. He’s the one shouting “Stand By!” and “One Fire!” “Two Fire!” “Three Fire!” “Four Fire!”
Synchronising the gunfire to the music inside the arena is no mean feat.
Thank you, Brent, for capturing this wonderful footage, wailing car sirens and all.
Memories of the Cape Town Military Tattoo 