News
The Prince of Wales visits The Black Watch at Fort George
3rd September 2011
The 480-strong battalion, based at the barracks in Ardersier, are due to start a six-month tour of duty in Nad-e-Ali, in Helmand province, where they will be working alongside the Afghan security forces.
Arriving by helicopter shortly before 11am, The Prince was piped in by the regiment's pipe and drum band and watched a parade of more than 100 soldiers representing the five companies within the Black Watch regiment.
His Royal Highness told the soldiers he was proud to be associated with the battalion - as his family has had a connection to the regiment since the First World War.
He said: "The colours on parade today will follow you to Afghanistan, along with, I can assure you, my constant thoughts and best wishes, and I hope they will serve as a continuing source of inspiration during your deployment.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of all the families here today.
"Your continued support and forbearance has been a tremendous strength to the battalion. As a father myself I have some idea of what is endured by those left behind.
"All of you here today stand together as one great battalion family and my thought and prayers are with you all."
Following his speech The Duke of Rothesay presented medals to Colours Sergeant John Barrie and Captain Scott Mackenzie for long service and good conduct.
Captain Mackenzie, who was awarded his meritorious service medal for helping students at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, raise more than £140,000 for the Army Benevolent Fund, said he was honoured to receive his medal from The Prince, who is the regiment's Royal Colonel.
His Royal Highness also met soldiers and their families during his visit.
The Duke rounded off his visit with a stop at The Highlanders Museum at Fort George and a tour around some of the stalls at the event which displayed the Army's uniforms and weapons.
A crowd gathered at around 2pm at the gates of the fort to wave him off.