Goat Redeems Self and is Promoted Once Again

By Tom Paone

You may read this article and say, “Hey! This belongs in the humor section.” It, however, is an actual news story. A mascot in the British army, a goat named Billy, a descendant from one presented to the First Royal Welsh Battalion in 1844, made a mockery of the unit in June when it refused to march properly for Queen Elizabeth’s 80th birthday celebration. As a result of these actions, Billy, who actually has a serial number in the British army, was demoted from his rank of Lance Corporal to private. Billy was redeemed, however, ” . . . after ‘turning heads’ during . . . the Alma Day parade to celebrate a Royal Welsh victory in the Crimea War, 1854.” An officer at the event reported that, “Billy performed exceptionally well, he has had all summer to reflect on his behavior at the Queen’s birthday and clearly earned the rank he deserves.” Stories like this go to prove that, no matter how low you sink, you can still redeem yourself through your own actions, even if you are a goat.