The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Attack recalled
in the wings for what was described at the time as “the best planned operation in military history”.
On February 24, “G-Day” had arrived. With air and naval support, the British and coalition forces swept in on three fronts led by Allied commander-in-chief General Norman “Stormin’ Norman” Schwarzkopf.
In one of the most remarkable feats in British military history, the 1st Armoured Division advanced 180 miles into Iraq in just 66 hours, outwitting Saddam’s battered war machine.
But celebrations soon turned to sadness when the US jets fired those fatal missiles on the afternoon of February 26 1991.
Immediately a major investigation was launched to find out why the Warrior vehicles had been mistaken for Iraqi targets.
While back home, calls were made for a fitting tribute to the young lives lost.
In the days after the ceasefire, Newtonmore councillor Sandy Russell, who had fought in the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders in the Second World War, suggested a plaque should be installed in Inverness.
The fallen soldiers’ names feature on a roll of honour at Fort George in Inverness, which also houses the Queen’s Own Highlanders’ regimental collection.
And in 2019, a striking statue was unveiled in Bank Street, Inverness, recognising the sacrifices made by the 14 Queen’s Own Highlanders killed in the regiment’s 33-year history.
Taking the form of a bronze “Jock”, the poignant monument also bears the name of the regiment’s fallen comrades.
Privates Donald, Ferguson and Lang are never far from the thoughts of fellow Queen’s Own Highlanders, and despite ongoing Covid restrictions, individuals will still pay their respects.
Lieutenant Colonel Bob Towns MBE, chairman of the Highland Branch of the Queen’s Own Highlanders Regimental Association, said it’s important to pay tribute 30 years on.
He added: “The lives lost over there are always in our memories and we will remember them.
“Normally we’d be having a parade at each graveside in Forres, Fort William and Nairn, but under the circumstances that is not allowed. Individuals will be paying their own respects.”