Scottish veterans and their families were the focus of a special reception in Edinburgh Castle’s Grand Hall ahead of the 70th anniversary of D-day.
The event, which took place on Wednesday 4 June, was co-hosted by local MP David Mundell, on behalf of the UK Government and the General Officer Commanding Scotland (GOC). It served as the national event for veterans in Scotland before they depart for France to take part in official ceremonies at Bayeux on the 6th June.
The veterans were welcomed by Scotland Office Minister David Mundell, Major General Eeles (General Officer Commanding Scotland and Governor of Edinburgh Castle) and Kevin Gray MM, Chief Executive Officer, Royal British Legion Scotland.
Mr Mundell delivered a speech praising the contribution and individual sacrifice made by service men and women across Scotland and the United Kingdom in WW2. He was also keen to emphasise the very personal mark the war left on a generation of Britain’s, drawing on the memories of his mother, who was stationed in the cook house at one of the D-Day transit camps in Leicester.
Speaking following the event, Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell, who sits on the Armed Forces (Covenant) Cabinet Committee, said:
“This anniversary is a very important historic occasion and the event complemented the extensive ones taking place in Normandy. It served as a valuable opportunity to show our gratitude to Scottish veterans for their courage and remarkable contribution.
“I was particularly honoured to be in the company of these heroic men and women who sacrificed so much in defence of our freedom. No matter how much time passes we must never forget that they were willing to, and did, put their lives on the line for us. Pausing to reflect on that fact reminded me just how important it is on these anniversaries to share the stories and memories of those events not just with those who were there, but generations to come.
“I am always very humbled when I listen to my own mother recount her war time memories, particularly those in the days running up to the D-day landings and I would encourage others to take this opportunity to ask their relatives, friends and neighbours about their war time stories.”
Among the guests were Scottish D-Day veterans and their families, the wider defence and veterans community and political representatives.
Mr Mundell also delivered a personal message from the Prime Minister who was unable to attend.
In his message UK Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Sometimes, it is nearly impossible to put into words the debt which this generation owes to you, our D-Day heroes for the herculean human endeavour of you and your comrades 70 years ago.
“I cannot imagine what it must have been like for you, landing on the beaches of Normandy and carrying the hopes of our country and the future of the free world on your shoulders.
“But you were not found wanting. You fought, and you overcame.
“Your success was immense. Our gratitude is immeasurable.”