New recruits for the Pontifical Swiss Guard are sworn into service annually on May 6. That day is special to these soldiers--the last Papal army in existence--because on that date in 1527, the Swiss Guard made its heroic last stand to defend Pope Clement VII during the sack of Rome by muntinous Imperial troops.
Yesterday, Pope Leo XIV attended the admission of 28 members to this revered unit. These men pledged to give their lives, if necessary, in his defense.
The official band of the Swiss Guard then performed for the Pope's pleasure, including a favorite from American popular music: "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond.