More than half a century of heroics by The Black Watch has been praised in the Scottish Parliament.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser commemorated the regiment’s bravery during a debate on the 65th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
He described his “eternal gratitude” to the armed forces and the sacrifices made during the second world war.
Mr Fraser said, “Men and women from every community in Scotland fought or contributed to the war effort.
“My region is proud to be home to the famous Black Watch and its service during the second world war underlines the commitment and sacrifice that so many made for the United Kingdom.”
He added, “Battalions of The Black Watch fought in almost every major British action in the second world war, from Palestine to Normandy.
“Black Watch units held the line against the Germans at Dunkirk, fought in the battle of El Alamein, took part in the allied invasion of Sicily and landed in Normandy on D-Day.”
Mr Fraser said, “Those men served Scotland, the United Kingdom and the free world with distinction and dedication.”
He urged his colleagues to ensure that soldiers receive more support, saying, “We owe a deep debt of gratitude to the soldiers who put everything on the line for our country, but I fear that we are not doing enough to repay that debt.
“Our soldiers should never again be sent into battle ill-equipped, and they should never again have to walk into battle when they could be flown in.”
He added, “In marking VE Day, one of our most important duties is always to remember the heroism and sacrifice of our armed forces.”