By Dave Lord

BLACK WATCH troops from all over Tayside and Fife will be officially welcomed home during spectacular parades throughout the regimental heartland.

The Perth-based regiment served with distinction in Iraq and while members of the public will no doubt be out in force to hail their heroes thoughts will also be with the families of soldiers who did not return home.

More than 200 kilted veterans are set to parade through Perth on Friday, March 4.

It is envisaged that, during a week-long timetable, parades will also be held throughout the rest of the regiment’s traditional recruitment ground, with Dundee, Blairgowrie and Aberfeldy—where the regiment was raised in the 18th century—all featuring.

Although the Government controversially decided The Black Watch should be part of an amalgamated force, pride in the regiment is extremely high and the parades are sure to be well attended.

Families who endured months of uncertainty as loved ones served in some of Iraq’s most dangerous regions are expected to be invited to a civic reception in Perth to recognise their commitment and loyalty to the regiment and its role.

Captain Bob Reid, the Perth officer in command of recruitment, said, “This will be a spectacular homecoming.

“It is a chance to show our sincere appreciation of the support which the lads received while they were out in Iraq.

“It was incredible and, believe me, was a great boost to the morale to know that so many people back home were thinking about them.

“The soldiers marching all saw service in the Middle East.”

Captain Reid was keen to stress that, despite amalgamation, local recruitment will continue to play a crucial role.

“We will be hammering home the message that there are still excellent career opportunities and that, despite the changes, there will still be a Black Watch,” he said.

“We are recruiting now and in the future and are looking for men in the 16 to 28 age bracket to come and join us.”

The Perth parade, which will include two guards of 100 men from the 1st Battalion, will be accompanied by pipes and drums.

Warrior vehicles, which played a vital role in Iraq, will also feature.

It is planned that Provost Bob Scott will take the salute, just as he did when the regiment returned from its first tour of duty in Iraq.