Powerful emotions and pride as troops march through Ayr

Oct 31 2008

Powerful emotions and so much pride

AS they marched towards their destination, the town ground to a halt.

This wasn’t the searing heat of Afghanistan’s Helmand Province – but the eyes of the soldiers told a different story.

They may be home from one of the world’s most dangerous war zones.

But their parade through Ayr was all about finishing the job.

The homecoming was an emotional occasion – a chance for friends, family and the public to show their appreciation.

And also a chance to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice during battle.

The Royal Highland Fusiliers, who were presented with the Freedom of Ayr in 1959, returned with their Second Battalion for the parade this week.

It was a day of heightened emotion as colleagues remembered Mossblown’s Corporal Barry Dempsey, who lost his life serving for the same regiment just two months ago.

South Ayrshire Provost Winnie Sloan led the tributes after welcoming the soldiers to Ayr Town Hall for a special ceremony.

She said: “I was extremely honoured and humbled to take part in the parade acknowledging and paying tribute to the soldiers who have served their country and selflessly put themselves at risk to protect others.

“Many people from South Ayrshire have a friend or relative who has served in the military in the past, is serving, or plans to do so in the future.

“It is important to remember that the families of serving personnel need our support as well as the soldiers as they are the ones left at home.”

Ayr MSP John Scott joined the crowds lining the streets and paid tribute to both the soldiers and the public.

He said: “It was a very important day for Ayr to welcome home the soldiers who have done us so proud.

“The emotion was very powerful and the parade was tremendously well done.

“The level of support given to these brave young men and women by the public was also striking and it is so important their contribution is recognised.”

Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP Sandra Osborne added: “I congratulate all those involved in organising this fitting tribute to our troops.

“I was also immensely proud of the reception given to the soldiers by the large crowd who had assembled from all over Ayrshire and beyond.”