Exactly 68 years on from the start of the pivotal Second World War battle in the sands of North Africa, those who have worn the Red Hackle came together in commemoration of El Alamein.
The Black Watch played an important role in the decisive 1942 battle and, as its Angus Association gathered in Forfar to pay their annual tribute to the men who fought there, thoughts were also with four current members of the battalion who have faced a hostile enemy in the inhospitable terrain of Afghanistan.
The group were among a near 50-strong company at a dinner last Saturday evening in the Royal British Legion Scotland clubrooms in Forfar, where the current association president, Dundee lord provost John Letford, was chief guest.
Branch chairman, Major Ronnie Proctor gave a short talk on the battle of El Alamein and read out a telemessage from Prince Charles, Royal Patron of the Black Watch Association. The company also heard an account of experiences in Afghanistan from two of the guests, with Mr Letford replying to the speakers.
“We were delighted to be able to welcome the lord provost in his capacity as branch president, a role he has been very active in since taking it up,” said Major Proctor.
“The dinner was established to remember those involved at El Alamein, but many of those who attend provide an important reminder of the link between the old and the new, and the role of the Black Watch.
“We had members present who have served in places like Korea, Kenya, Cyprus and Northern Ireland, as well as Afghanistan.”