Scots Guards welcomed home in Glasgow parade

1st Battalion Scots Guards parade in Glasgow. Picture: Robert Perry

Around 250 soldiers marched through the city centre to celebrate their return from a six-month tour of duty in Helmand Province, where they were deployed to the Upper Gereshk Valley.

The troops were sent to Afghanistan as part of Operation Herrick 17 between October 2012 and April this year.

People lined the route from Holland Street to George Square to watch the 1st Battalion Scots Guards take part in the homecoming parade.

The battalion spent six months in Helmand Province. Picture: Robert Perry

Commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Rob Howieson said: “It is a great honour to be marching through the streets of Glasgow today. The Guardsmen are very proud of their work and they are humbled to be able to parade in front of the people of Glasgow.

“The battalion has had a challenging six months in Afghanistan and today’s parade recognises its achievements. It also gives friends and families the opportunity to celebrate their safe return and accomplishments of the last few months.”

The battalion is based at Catterick, North Yorkshire, but its main recruiting ground remains in Scotland.

The troops have already paraded through the streets of Edinburgh - where they were granted the freedom of the city - and Inverness as part of their homecoming celebrations.

During today’s parade, Glasgow’s Lord Provost Sadie Docherty took the salute, with the Regimental Lieutenant Colonel, Brigadier Harry Nickerson.

Ms Docherty said: “Glaswegians are extremely proud of their brave soldiers and today was no exception. Folk want our military to know that we are profoundly grateful for their bravery, loyalty and service.

“As Lord Lieutenant and Lord Provost it is always a privilege to meet military personnel and their families and I am thrilled to welcome 1st Battalion Scots Guards to our city today.”