Show of pride from families and town as soldiers receive freedom of Chippenham (From Wiltshire Times)

Show of pride from families and town as soldiers receive freedom of Chippenham

12:00pm Friday 27th January 2012 in Chippenham

EMOTIONS ran high as soldiers from the 9th Regiment Royal Logistics Corps, based at Buckley Barracks, were given the freedom of Chippenham last Thursday.

Cheering people lined the streets and children from local schools waved homemade flags as 500 soldiers from Hullavington marched through the streets following a full brass band.

Before the soldiers paraded through the town, 150 who had recently returned from a six-month tour of Afghanistan were awarded with medals in Wood Lane car park.

Many of their families were present to watch as they received the honour.

Kathy Pett had travelled from Birmingham to watch her son, Staff Sergeant James Donaldson, receive his medal.

“He’s travelled all over the world with the Army,” she said. “It’s a wonderful occasion and I’m so proud of him.

“It never gets less emotional watching them all come home safely.”

Kathy Robinson had also come from Birmingham to watch her daughter, Sergeant Katherine Robinson, receive her medal.

“She’s a very popular girl – everyone knows her,” she said. “It’s fantastic to see her get her medal.”

Major Bill Beaumont, officer in command, said he was immensely proud of his soldiers, and thanked loved ones at home.

“Our job is to make sure all the materials that are part of any war get to where they’re needed, from food and water to medical supplies like blood and bandages,” he said.

“The men and women of this regiment have been brilliant. We’d also like to recognise the support we have received from those back at home. When soldiers receive a letter or some goodies, it really raises morale. We’re so grateful for the help and support the families give all the troops.”

Major Beaumont was accompanied by his mother Valerie, wife Nicola and six-year-old daughter Jessica at the parade.

His mother, who had tears in her eyes, said: “It’s just a wonderful day, and we are so proud of him.

“It’s fantastic to see this display. I’m so glad everyone is home.”

Lance Corporal Lok Thapa said he had no words for the emotion of receiving a medal.

“I am proud to be a part of it,” he said. “I received my medal last year. We had the same parade through Malmesbury.

“I feel very proud to be a part of this group, and we all enjoy working together as a part of it.”

Chippenham Mayor David Powell presented the medals with Lord Lieutenant John Bush, and said he was overwhelmed to be involved in the celebrations.

“This honour shows our support, our pride and our respect for what you do and the way you conduct yourselves, often in difficult and dangerous situations,” said Coun Powell.

The granting of freedom of entry is the highest award that the council can bestow and means individual regiments are allowed to march through the town with due ceremony, bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and banners flying.

It is the first time the honour has been given for more than 20 years.