Arbroath-based 212 (Highland) Battery celebrated its 50th anniversary with an event in Angus.
Battery Commander Major Lee Patchell welcomed guests to the Army Reserve Centre in Arbroath on Saturday – including the Lord-Lieutenant of Angus, and Angus Provost Ronnie Proctor.
Guests were treated to historical presentations on the Battery from previous Battery Commanders, including one from Lt Col Neil Sharp who joined the Army Reserve in 1954 and commanded the Battery from 1969-1973.
They also received lunch and had the opportunity to visit a variety of static and information displays.
The event celebrated what was Q Battery being reinvigorated back into life as 212 Battery in 1969.
Prior to 1969 Q Battery had been part of 76 Regiment, 127 Regiment, then 400 Regiment. 212 Battery was formed and became the third sub unit of 102 AD Regt. It became part of 105 AD Regt when it was formed in 1986 and a troop was established in Fife. In 2005 the regiment was re-roled to Field Artillery. G Troop in Shetland was formed in 2007 becoming the northernmost RA detachment, re-establishing a link that had been lost when 400 Regt RA was disbanded in 1969.
The link to Shetland was reinforced by the visit of Bombardier Gary Irvine from G Troop in Lerwick, who provided a hint of drama by coming dressed in his Up Helly Aa Viking outfit.
*Main image shows some of the former Battery Commanders including Lt-Col Neil Sharp (right) and current Battery Commander Major Lee Patchell (second from left).
Major Lee Patchell.
A guest gets a closer look at some of 212’s artillery.
Guests enjoying one of the presentations.
Bombardier Gary Irvine from G Troop in Lerwick.
