British Army Promotes RAM To Lance Corporal & Have Him Decorated

A British Army mascot has little to be sheepish about after being promoted for good behaviour. Private Derby XXX, who happens to be a ram is the regimental totem of the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment.

After eight years serving, he was promoted to Lance Corporal in a special ceremony. The ram was presented with his single stripe as the army unit celebrated its formation day at Dale Barracks in Chester yesterday.

His career has seen him switching on the Christmas lights in Ashbourne and meeting Prince William. He has his own army number, gets paid to buy his rations and gets holiday leave during mating season. Throughout the ceremony, the ram was flanked by Ram Major Corporal Philip Thornton, and Private Stuart McLean of Denton.

More pictures below: