The roar of an RAF Typhoon, the skirl of the pipes, the voices raised in a hymn these were the sounds of Armed Forces Day in Dundee.
Hundreds of people packed City Square to witness a parade by services personnel, veterans and cadets to honour those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to the defence of the nation.
It was a moment to honour the current generation of soldiers, sailors and airmen and to remember those of past years, including the many who made the ultimate sacrifice.
In the words of Lord Provost Bob Duncan, they were all heroes.
He told those on parade it was a “great honour and privilege” to welcome them and a chance to demonstrate the love and affection in which they are held by the people of the city.
The lord provost inspected the ranks, including personnel from RAF Leuchars, 225 (Scottish) Medical Regiment and the Angus and Dundee Battalion, Army Cadet Force.
Also present were the veterans of the City of Dundee Combined Ex Services Association and music for the occasion was provided by the cadets’ pipes and drums and the Highland Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
The senior officer present was Air Commodore Gerry Mayhew, Air Officer Scotland and officer commanding RAF Leuchars.
He praised the “fantastic welcome” for the services personnel and said he wanted to thank the people of Dundee for the support they gave to the armed forces, helping to sustain them in their duties at home and overseas.
Gallery: Dundee marks Armed Forces Day
There were prayers for those who put their lives at risk that others might live in safety and the crowd joined in singing Abide With Me.
Then the sky was split by the sleek lines of the Typhoon as it flew south across the city, passing above City Square exactly as scheduled.
The aircraft is one of the most advanced fighters in the world, but it has vital links with the past.
It belongs to No 1 (Fighter) Squadron, which is based at Leuchars and provides the quick reaction alert for air threats in the north of the UK.