December 7, 2021
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In November, Ardersier Detachment of 1st Battalion The Highlanders Army Cadet Force was approached by a devoted mum seeking to acquire the recently-replaced Ardersier Detachment sign.
Bemused by the request she was asked why on earth she would want an old, out of date sign.
She explained that her son Austin has special needs and has a love for all kinds of signs. Austin, who travels past Ardersier Detachment on his way to school, noticed that the bright blue Detachment sign had been replaced.
His mother asked if the sign could be retrieved for Austin’s bedroom wall as an addition to his other collections.
The Battalion was happy to help.
HRFCA’s Estates Officer North contacted Highland Homes, the contractor from Inverness, to help with the task. The contractor retrieved the old sign from his disposal pile, cleaned it up and very kindly framed it so it would be ready for Austin’s wall.
On December 1, Austin was invited to visit Ardersier Detachment. Detachment Commander Bart Lucas, Regimental Sergeant Major Instructor Gordie MacLeod and Cadet Executive Officer Major Jim Stout presented Austin with the sign.
A delighted young Austin was accompanied by his parents, grandparents and support worker.
It was a truly heartwarming moment. Austin’s face lit up like a Christmas tree, which made it all worthwhile. Austin’s parents were very grateful, and Austin was so happy. He would have taken the fire exit signs too if given the chance!
