Livingston based, 278 (Lowland) Battery Royal Artillery opened its doors to visitors and guests at their Flag Raising
Major Chris Maher, Battery Commander of 278 Battery Royal Artillery, was proud to announce the official Flag Raising of the first Royal Artillery Battery to be established in Scotland in over 20 years.
The flag was raised by Mr Graeme Morrice, MP for Livingston, following a parade into Beveridge Square, Army Reserve Centre, by the Pipes and Drums, Gunners of 105th Regiment Royal Artillery, and the Royal Artillery Association.
Major Maher explained:
“This is an exciting and proud time for 105th Regiment Royal Artillery. The increase in the size of the Army Reserve has provided the Scottish and Ulster Gunners with the opportunity to form a new Battery in Livingston. It will offer part time work to the people of West Lothian, a chance for travel, and to gain civilian qualifications, as well as meet some fantastic, motivated and dedicated Reservists.”
The Edinburgh branch of the Royal Artillery Association were present at the event and the Chairman of the branch Craig Blaney said:
“This is a momentous occasion happening in the RA calendar, it is the occasion of the formation and flag raising parade, for the newly formed 278(LOWLAND) Battery Royal Artillery. The Gunners are finally back in West Lothian. We as a fledgling branch have been invited by the Regiment and more importantly the BC Maj Chris Maher and the BSM WOII Stuart Taggart to attend at the event.”
It was a great day for such an event and many Veterans and serving soldiers got together and celebrated this event with a parade and time in the mess catching up with old friends and colleagues.
Below are some of the words from well-wishers and proud veterans that attended the day:
On behalf of the members of Livingston Branch RAA I would like thanks all Ranks of 105 Regiment RA, special thanks in particular to the BC, BSM and all ranks of 278 (Lowland) Bty RA for hosting the associations. Congratulations for the day, Good luck in your future endeavours, Welcome to the family proud have you.
UBIQUE
The raising of the flag at the new 278 Battery 105 Regiment Royal Artillery in Livingston West Lothian. Great day, good to catch up with some old friends and new gunners. Good luck to 278 Battery
What a fine day fora parade at livingstone today flag rasing at 278 BTY
Please see our Gallery for more photos of the day.