Gentlemen-at-arms

Gentlemen-at-arms (formerly called the GENTLEMEN-PENSIONERS), the bodyguard of the British sovereign, and, with the exception of the yeomen of the guard, the oldest corps in the British service. It was instituted in 1509 by Henry VIII., and now consists of 1 captain, who receives £1200 a year; 1 lieutenant, £500; 1 standard-bearer, £310; 1 clerk of the cheque, £120; and 40 gentlemen, each with £70 a year. The pay is issued from the privy purse. Until 1861 the commissions were purchasable, as in other regiments; but by a royal command of that year this system was abolished, and commissions as gentlemen-at-arms have since only been given to military officers of service and distinction. The attendance of the gentlemen-at-arms is only required at drawing-rooms, levées, coronations, and similar important state ceremonies. The appointment, which is in the sole gift of the crown, on the recommendation of the commander-in-chief, can be held in conjunction with half-pay or retired full-pay, but not simultaneously with any appointment which might involve absence at the time of the officer's services being required by the sovereign.