FIRST ARMED FORCES DAY IN SCOTLAND DOES HEROS PROUD
SCOTLAND did its war heroes proud yesterday with a series of spectacular events to celebrate the first Armed Forces Day.
It was a day of tears and cheers across the nation, when young and old united to honour our brave troops from the past and present.
The poignant day was summed up in GLASGOW as three-year-old Kenzie Adams sat beside 91-year- old Hugh Gavin.
The tot was fascinated by an impressive collection of medals worn by the Sergeant Major of the 3rd Regiment of Royal Horse Artillery.
Tens of thousands turned out at 200 events in cities, towns and communities to see RAF Nimrod flypasts, parachute displays, pipe bands and rousing marches.
Glasgow's parade of 500 veterans and serving soldiers was led by the Royal Regiment of Scotland band to George Square.
And Sergeant Sean Collins of 2 Scots, formerly the Royal Highland Fusiliers, was touched.
The 37-year-old has seen action in the first Gulf War, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistanand Northern Ireland during his 20 years' service.
He said: "I am proud to be part of celebrations which reflect the honour of thousands of courageous people who love their country."
In EDINBURGH, the Queen presented operational medals to Grant Hutchinson, from Falkirk, and William Dalgliesh, of Edinburgh. The troopers, both 21, were the youngest Royal Scots Dragoon Guards to serve on tour last year.
The Monarch visited Redford Barracks as questions were raised about where HER boys were.
The 83-year-old was the only royal to take part in the momentous countrywide celebrations, despite her sons and grandsons all having been in the forces.
A parachute display by the Army Golden Lions over Holyrood Park amazed onlookers like veterans Myles Shanley and Harry Cadow.
First Minister Alex Salmond said: "It is important that we honour the efforts of the armed forces to make the world a safer place, and that we provide the best services for them when they return."
Thousands in ABERDEEN watched a 1,000-strong march down the city's Union Street. Abbey McDonald, 79, a retired Warrant Officer with the Gordon Highlanders, who lives in the city, said: "It's fabulous to see so many young people - folk have brought children and grandchildren.
"It's important that younger generations remember the bravery and service of our soldiers."
GMTV star Lorraine Kelly - honorary colonel of the Black Watch cadets - was in uniform for an inspection in DUNDEE, where more than 500 veterans gathered.
Army bosses were delighted by the fantastic reception.
Co-ordinator Brigadier David Allfrey said: "We are thrilled that the people of Scotland embraced the concept of Armed Forces Day.
"Communities have been honouring the armed forces over the last couple of weeks in some of the more remote areas of Scotland such as the Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands and the Highlands.
"Now is the turn of our major cities to join in the celebrations, along with communities across the country. This is a homecoming for the armed forces and a great day out for all the family."
There were also major celebrations in MANCHESTER, BIRMINGHAM, NOTTINGHAM and PLYMOUTH. In CHATHAM, Kent, PM Gordon Brown paid tribute as more than 500 serving personnel and young recruits from the Royal Navy, Army and RAF lined up to greet dignitaries. They arrived at the Dock's Thunderbolt Pier, led by the Royal Marines Band.
Mr Brown said: "Today Chatham has spoken for the whole country. The people here have shown the high esteem in which they hold the armed forces.
"The armed forces do so much, the families make such sacrifices. I don't think we say thank you enough - today is our chance."
This article has 0 comments