Soldiers from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, just back from their final deployment to Afghanistan, marched through Westminster this morning to a surprise welcome from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne. The London Homecoming Parade served as a rousing send off for more than 120 serving and former members of the Coldstream Guards who are participating in Bike2Bennecourt, a cycle ride of over 250 miles from London to Bennecourt, France. The sponsored cycle ride is a fundraiser for regimental charities so that they can continue to support wounded soldiers and their families. The soldiers paraded from Wellington Barracks to the Guards Memorial at Horse Guards Parade where they were met by a surprise well wisher. Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, popped out to wish the soldiers and their families well. By St James’s Park he joined them in a service of thanksgiving for the safe return of the Battalion from operations. Prayers were made honouring those Coldstream Guardsmen who made the ultimate sacrifice in previous tours of Afghanistan, and in previous conflicts, in the service of this country. George Osborne was joined by the Colonel of the Regiment, Lieutenant General Sir James Bucknall, who has two sons in the Regiment, and General Officer Commanding London District, Major General Edward Smyth-Osbourne, who laid wreaths at the memorial. Chancellor George Osborne said: “It is an honour to welcome home the soldiers from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards and I pay tribute to their courage and professionalism. Our Armed Forces have made, and continue to make, huge sacrifices for the nation and we owe them a debt of gratitude.” Accompanied by rousing music from the Band of the Coldstream Guards, he set off the cyclists. The Band will entertain passengers on the cross channel ferry from Dover to France and will give further concerts at Hesdin and Gisors before the group arrives at Bennecourt on the morning of 20 September. Upon arrival there will be a First World War Memorial Service with the Band of the Coldstream Guards and the Band of the Garde Republicaine, with French and British dignitaries in attendance.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Sep 2014 11:05:57 +0000
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