Soldiers get okay to march in Aberfeldy and Perth

Oct 2 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

BRAVE soldiers from Perthshire will be honoured on their return from Iraq and Afghanistan after councillors from every political hue backed a series of celebratory events.

Perth and Kinross Council will hold a civic reception and homecoming parades by Black Watch troops through Aberfeldy on December 10 and Perth two days later, as well as a freedom-of-the-city ceremony in honour of the Perth-based 7th Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Council provost John Hulbert said the Black Watch, which was raised during the 1715 and 1745 Jacobite rebellions, had “served with great distinction throughout the world”.

He said he looked forward to seeing the troops march with colours flying and bayonets fixed following the conclusion of their tour of duty in Kandahar, Afghanistan, next month.

Councillor Willie Wilson said the homecoming promised to be an emotional occasion.

“It’s apt that this is in the heartland of the recruiting territory in Aberfeldy,” he said.

“I an sure the public will turn out in their droves.”

Highland member Ken Lyall said ‘Feldy residents were “very proud” of the regiment.

“I am sure most folk will get time off to come out if they possibly can,” he added.

Provost Hulbert said the TA, which will be honoured in May, had established a “long and distinguished record” since its formation in 1908.

“Half of the Black Watch TA are employed in Afghanistan or Iraq and they have served the British Army with great honour.

“They will be returning home in the spring and it would be appropriate to have a freedom service in May.”

Expressing the hope that all recruits return home safe and well, Councillor Wilson described the freedom of the city as “the highest accolade that can be given”.

“This is a huge honour and not done lightly,” he declared.

“We are in a heightened situation at the moment as far as the armed forces are concerned but the TA have certainly earned that honour and recognition.

“Such occasions are a celebration but also a solemnity with due seriousness.”

Perth Tory chief Alexander Stewart said the TA’s ‘freedom’ would follow the full Black Watch regiment receiving similar recognition in 1947.

“This will be a fitting tribute,” he said.

On behalf of Labour, Councillor Archie MacLellan said the troops’ bravery could not be underestimated.

“This is not an honour we are conferring upon them, it is an honour for us to have men and women of that calibre in our midst,” he declared.