Royal Scots Dragoon Guards mark homecoming with Glasgow parade
On Monday, 28 November, soldiers of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (SCOTS DG) proudly marched through Glasgow to mark their return from a tough but successful tour of duty in Helmand province, Afghanistan.
In keeping with tradition dating back hundreds of years, the regiment paraded through the streets of Glasgow to show their thanks for the support that members of the public have given them during their tour of duty.
The parade also gave Glaswegians a chance to come out to show their appreciation of the regiment, which holds the honour of the Freedom of the City, for the hard work its soldiers have carried out during their tour of duty.
Many families and friends also turned out for the parade to show their appreciation and support for the troops.
The Lord Provost of Glasgow, Bob Winter, said:
I am always immensely proud, in my capacity as Lord-Lieutenant, to take the salute at the homecoming parades in our city. Our citizens’ warmest wishes go to these brave young men. We are indebted to our Armed Forces for their professionalism and dedication.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan ‘Barty’ Bartholomew, Commanding Officer of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, commenting on the regiment’s return from its tour of duty and the homecoming parades, said:
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards were deployed to Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK 14 from March to November 2011, one of several units to deploy alongside 3 Commando Brigade.
It was the first full regimental deployment to Afghanistan for SCOTS DG and the soldiers return home very proud of what they have achieved and of the immense contribution they have made.
I am honoured to have had the privilege to command them. After a tough and long six months, the regiment will now enjoy the homecoming parades, and have some very well-deserved leave to spend time with their families and loved ones whose unwavering support has made a huge difference.
While the regiment is currently based in Germany the parades are an important part of the process of returning to Scotland following an operation. They are joyful public events that allow the soldiers to march with pride through the towns and cities that many of them are from and be proud of their achievements.
It also gives the families a chance to see their husbands and sons receiving just praise for the work that they have done from members of the public who, ultimately, they protect.
The regiment will take part in further homecoming parades this week in Dundee and Edinburgh. Today, Tuesday 29 November, soldiers from SCOTS DG will be in Dundee. The route will take the regiment from the north east end of Cowgate, down Reform Street where the Lord Provost will take the salute, then on to City Square.
On Thursday, 1 December, the regiment moves to Edinburgh. This parade commences at 1130hrs and the route will take the regiment from Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, down the Royal Mile, where the Lord Provost will take the salute at the City Chambers, then on to Canongate Kirk where the regiment’s soldiers will attend a service of thanksgiving.