LIVERPOOL is to host a ‘homecoming’ parade of soldiers from 2nd Battalion (2 RIFLES) on Saturday 31st October 2009, following their return from action in Afghanistan.
Although based in barracks in Northern Ireland, The Rifles has close ties to Liverpool, recruiting many of its soldiers from the city. The choice of venue for this parade will allow the soldiers’ families, friends and loved ones to watch with pride as they march through the city. It will also provide an opportunity for all Liverpudlians to show their support for the troops.
About 100 soldiers from 2 RIFLES will march through the city, on a route from St George’s Hall to Liverpool Town Hall, including along Church Street. Spectators will see the soldiers dressed in desert combat uniforms and led by the Band and Bugles of The Rifles. They will march at a rapid 140 paces a minute, a distinguishing characteristic of this infantry regiment.
The proceedings will begin at 11am at St George’s Hall, where a wreath will be laid at the nearby war memorial in memory of the 24 soldiers from the 2 RIFLES’ bigger Battle Group who were killed in action during the six month operational tour in Helmand province (Note: 13 of the 24 were Riflemen, 11 were soldiers from other units attached to the Battle Group. None were from Merseyside).
The soldiers will then form up to be inspected before starting the parade through the city (at approximately 11.30am), ending at Liverpool Town Hall where the Lord Mayor of Liverpool will host a private reception.
Liverpool’s Lord Mayor Councillor Mike Storey said: “I’m honoured to be able to host the Brigade 2 Rifles at the Town Hall and to be able to watch them marching through the city, which I’m sure will be a spectacular and impressive display and one that people will remember for a long time to come.
“Liverpool has a long and proud tradition of honouring organisations that make a valuable commitment to this city, and indeed the country as a whole. We are all immensely proud of the service the regiment gives and we should never underestimate their contribution during peacetime and military operations. The regiment has provided an essential military role, serving in operations all over the world, risking their lives for the safety of others.
“I hope people will come out and show their support for these dedicated soldiers. On behalf of the City of Liverpool I hope the Rifles have a fantastic day.”
Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, Commanding Officer of 2 RIFLES, said: “The commitment, courage and sheer grit of every man in the Battle Group throughout this tour in Afghanistan has been humbling, as has been the support and gratitude shown to them by family, friends and even strangers back home in the UK. The Rifles is very proud of its close association with Merseyside and we look forward to parading with pride in Liverpool on 31st October.”
linda smart , manchester around 2 years, 6 months ago