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The Argyll and Sutherland
Highlanders on parade

by Adam Williams

awilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk

Hundreds lined the streets of
Canterbury today to welcome home soldiers from The Argyll and
Sutherland Highlanders.

The Fifth Battalion, The Royal
Regiment of Scotland marched through the city centre behind the
pipes and drums of the Regimental Military Band following another
successful tour of Afghanistan.

The soldiers, based at the city's
Howe Barracks, returned home last month from a six month tour
of Helmand Province as part of Operation HERRICK 13.

There they trained members of
the Afghan National Army and Police as well as supporting security
operations around Taliban strongholds.

In the morning, soldiers were
presented with their Afghanistan campaign medals at Howe Barracks
by guests including Canterbury and Whitstable MP Julian Brazier,
Lord Mayor, Cllr Pat Todd and former Commanding Officer Lt Col
David Richmond.

The Battalion then marched
through the city in full ceremonial dress of kilts and with
bayonets fixed.

It was the first time since the
Duke of Wellington presented the 93rd Sutherland Highlanders with
their regimental colours in 1834 that a Battalion had marched in
full ceremonial dress.

Soldiers, family and friends then
filled Canterbury Cathedral for a homecoming service.

In his sermon Padre Stewart Mackay,
chaplain to the forces said: "Now we return home from our latest
engagement, it's good to come home and today's events are not
unlike those experienced by soldiers in the past.

"It makes us feel appreciated and a
part of this community."

Commanding Officer Lt Col Adam
Griffiths added: "I was overwhelmed by the response from the public
and the reception we have had today will stay with me for a
lifetime."

Check out next week's
Kentish Gazette for more reaction and pictures.