Soldiers who have been fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan can expect a heroes’ welcome when they parade through city streets in November.
The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment will return from service in Afghanistan later this month.
The latest tour, the fourth made to the Middle-Eastern country over the past 10 years, will be the last, after the announcement of the security handover from the regiment, nicknamed The Vikings, to Afghan police and soldiers.
To mark the return, a parade will be held on Friday, 9 November, when soldiers will march from Church Street through Peterborough city centre to Town Hall.
Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Mick Aston said: “From the first deployment to Kabul in 2002, just months after the attack on the World Trade Centre, to this latest tour of Helmand Province, the Vikings have played a wide ranging and important role in bringing lasting peace and security to this troubled part of the World.
“Over the course of a decade, in spite of the many difficulties faced along the way, and thanks to the courage and determination of our young men and women, huge progress has been made.
“Sadly, as you will be well aware, this progress has come at a heavy price. On this tour another young Viking made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country, bringing the total number from the Battalion killed in Afghanistan since 2002 to 16; and many more have been wounded, some grievously.”
Mr Aston urged residents to come out to support the troops.
He said: “We look forward to welcoming you on one of these parades. So perhaps you could spare a few minutes of your time to join us and cheer the boys on as they march proudly past with drums beating, bands playing, colours flying and bayonets fixed.
“I know they will really appreciate your support.”
Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson said he was sure city residents would come out and support the troops.
He said: “There is a great affinity for the regiment, with them being honoury freemen of the city. There is a special bond between Peterborough and the Anglians.
“I am sure people will come out to show support for the courage and sacrifice that has been made. There have been huge sacrifices made over the past ten years.
“I have visited Afghanistan in the past, and was overwhelmed by the fantastic dedication of our troops out there.”
The parade, one of five taking place across the Eastern region, will start at 12.30pm.
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