June 27, 2016
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Dundee celebrated Armed Forces Day in style on 25 June.
The weather may have been alternating between blazing sunshine and heavy rain, but that didn’t deter a healthy crowd from enjoying the parade, military demonstrations and a variety of static displays from across all services, Cadets and charities.
Highland RFCA secured a prime spot in the City Centre for its tent and staff spent a successful day engaging with the public, and explaining the Association’s role in supporting Reservists and Service Cadets.
Catching the eye of young and old were military vehicles from Cupar-based C Squadron of the SNIY, who brought a WMIK, and 3 SCOTS who travelled from Fort George, near Inverness, with their impressive Foxhound vehicle.
The public were able to enjoy the displays from 10am along with entertainment from youth and community groups on the City Square stage.
Luckily, the main event of the day took place shortly after a cloudburst, with the parade of military personnel, Cadets and veterans – including Reservists from City-based 225 (Scottish) Medical Regiment and from HMS Scotia – stepping off from Dundee at 12:30 sharp.
The parade – led by the excellent Mains of Fintry Pipe Band – travelled down a packed Reform Street to City Square. The salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant of the City of Dundee, Lord Provost Bob Duncan, who was accompanied by Major General Mike Riddell-Webster CBE DSO, Governor of Edinburgh Castle and Mr Vic Herd, President of the City of Dundee Combined Ex-Services Association.
Major General Riddell-Webster is the highest-ranking Army Reservist and was installed as the castle’s Governor last year.
Once formed up in City Square and following welcome speeches, Mr Duncan, Maj-Gen Riddell-Webster and Mr Herd inspected the parade.
A demonstration of military capability and a gun run for Service Cadets followed.
Following the formalities, the public were again free to tour the stalls and displays. The successful event concluded mid-afternoon.
