Salmond leads Remembrance Sunday ceremony

Published on Sunday 8 November 2009 16:09

First Minister Alex Salmond led the Remembrance Sunday commemorations today as a range of events took place around the country.

Mr Salmond laid a wreath on behalf of the people of Scotland at the Stone of Remembrance in Edinburgh and gave a reading at a service in Edinburgh's St Giles.

The First Minister said: "Remembrance Sunday is a time for us all to reflect and remember the enormity of sacrifice made by Scottish servicemen and women, past and present.

"It allows people across generations to recognise and pay tribute to the duty and commitment of our service personnel and veterans, and express our gratitude for their selfless work."

The country has a "long and proud" military history, Mr Salmond said.

He added: "On this Remembrance Sunday in particular we acknowledge the continuing bravery of our service men and women, and the sacrifices they continue to make on our behalf."

The Lord Provost of Glasgow also led a similar ceremony in Glasgow.

George Ross, acting general secretary of the Royal British Legion Scotland, said: "We are proud to play our part in helping the nation pay their respects."

In Aberdeen a parade of former soldiers and members of the armed forces was held, ending at the war memorial where wreaths were placed. The parade was led by the Grampian Police Pipe Band.

Members of The Black Watch are also holding their own private service at Fort George near Inverness to remember the five soldiers who died during the seven-month tour of Afghanistan.