Yesterday myself and a few thousand others gathered behind barriers in the centre streets of Taunton, Somerset to warmly welcome back and to say a massive thank you at the homecoming parade for 40 Commando. We watched 700 Royal Marines march through their hometown of Taunton with pride to mark the end of their final seven month tour to Afghanistan as people cheered them on, crying, clapping, waving flags and generally thanking them for their bravery and efforts. Happy tears, it was quite emotional.
Libby Lisgo the towns mayor gave a great speech towards the end of the parade, thanking the unit and to remember those who sadly lost their lives. The unit was also presented with campaign medals by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh at Norton Manor Camp, near Taunton.
The church bells were in full force and ringing out throughout most of the parade making this event even more wonderful along with the band.
On returning back to the car to go home, we took a different route as the streets were still very busy and walked passed the World of Bears shop. I had to snap a shot of this human sized cuddly bear in his rather dashing uniform. Smiles.
