Armed forces celebration helping troops 'get the job done'
People in Dundee saluted the brave servicemen, women and veterans of the British Armed Forces over the weekend.
The lord provost receives the march past.
- By Craig McManamon
- Published in the Courier : 04.07.11
- Published online : 04.07.11 @ 06.57pm
Hundreds lined the streets as past and present members of the army, navy and air force marched through the city centre to the rousing sound of the pipes and drums.
The event, part of the city's Armed Forces Day 2011 celebrations, was watched over by Lord Provost John Letford. He presented several HM Armed Forces Veterans Badges in the City Square.
There was a special moment for 96-year-old Mary Robertson from Kinglassie. She travelled to Tayside from her home in Fife to accept a veterans' badge in memory of her late husband William Norrie, who was killed in action during the Second World War in the Netherlands.
The war widow has waited almost 70 years for the honour as she has been unaware that she had to lodge an official application in order to receive the badge.
At the ceremony Mr Letford said, "Today is a celebration of the men and women of the armed forces who keep us safe.
"The people of Dundee always come out in big numbers to show their support and their deep feeling for these heroes."
Meanwhile Commander Craig Millar, chief of staff to the Naval Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland, delivered a speech on behalf of the armed forces.
"As we stand here our comrades fight in various places around the world, often in arduous conditions far away from their families," he said.
"Your support of them is extremely welcome. It helps them focus and get the job done."
12.08am - 05.07.2011 Thomas M - Dundee, Scotland Report This
The Union Flag and Saltire flew proudly, the sun came out and shone brightly. As did the people of Dundee, keen to show their thanks to the British soldier. To any serviceman or woman reading, thank you for serving our nation and keeping us free.
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