More than 1,000 military veterans are expected to converge on Inverness at the weekend for an international gathering of the Queen’s Own Highlanders (Seaforth and Camerons) Regimental Association.
Cameron Barracks will host the 55th annual event for ex-servicemen and their relatives, reserve forces and cadet battalion affiliates.
On Saturday, guests will attend the unveiling of an old anti-tank gun at the regimental museum at Fort George, which was restored by Glen Lawson, a former member of the battalion’s anti-tank platoon.
The event is backed by Legion Scotland, the Royal British Legion Scotland’s ex-services community support fund.
George Givens, of the Queen’s Own Highlanders Regimental Association, said: “We’re delighted so many are travelling from Spain, the Czech Republic, America, Germany and the UK.
“The event is a great way for us all to reconnect with each other.
“We’re once again grateful for the charity’s continued support which will help make the weekend events even more memorable.”
The weekend will see a beating of retreat, an evening ceilidh and performances by the Association Pipes and Drums.
A special service will be held at Cameron Barracks on Sunday when Anne Blair, the widow of Lt Col David Blair, who died at Warren Point in Northern Ireland, will unveil a commemorative headstone dedicated to all Queen’s Own Highlanders who have died on active service.
The solid oak headstone will be placed in the museum as a lasting tribute.
Stephen Baird, of Legion Scotland, said: “Comradeship is one of the pillars of our charity.
“Each year, we organise our own calendar of events that aim to bring veterans together with like-minded people.”
The charity currently represents about 85% of people involved in disablement pension tribunals and offers a grant for veterans and their families. To donate £3 text ‘LSCO15 £3’ to 70070.
