Honouring the fallen
Veterans come out in force
Stirling’s Remembrance commemoration was attended by the highest number of veterans for many years.
On a cold but dry day, the ceremony, organised by the Stirling branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland, went “very well” both at the service in the Church of the Holy Rude, led by minister Alan Miller, and the interest shown in the parade to the cenotaph. Veterans of a number of conflicts attended.
RBLS Stirling branch secretary John Bell said: “There were the older veterans, serving personnel, but also those who were quite young and those who have come out of the army so there was a good age range. There were six standards on parade and representatives from the Royal Navy, HMS Forth, as well as 7 Scots, and it was the highest attendance by veterans for many years. The Scouts were also very well represented.”
The Royal Burgh of Stirling Pipes and Drums led the parade and the police were assisted on the day by the Royal Military Police. The trumpeter on the day was Fraser Harris and the lone piper in the church was Sergeant David Beverage, the district gunner at Edinburgh Castle.
Mr Bell added: “This is one day a year when veterans gather both to remember others and to enjoy each others’ company. There is a special bond no matter what age, or whatever part of the armed forces you are involved with or where you have served.”
The branch meets on the last Friday of every month and is always keen to welcome new members.
It is also heavily committed to collecting for the Poppy Scotland appeal. The appeal convener is a member of the branch, as are many of the local volunteers. All serving and non-serving MoD personnel are welcome at the meetings. For information call 01786 609770.