Prince Charles Presents 3 SCOTS With Iraq Campaign Medals

The Duke of Rothesay has presented campaign medals to soldiers who have recently returned from Iraq during a visit to Fort George.

The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (3 SCOTS), have completed a six-month operational tour of Iraq, based at Al-Asad Air Base in western Al-Anbar province.

Last year, Forces News joined the battalion as they prepared for the deployment.

Their two key responsibilities in Iraq were to provide the main security force for the near 4,000-strong coalition camp and to provide training and mentoring for Iraqi security forces, preparing them to lead security operations against so-called Islamic State.

The training company taught their Iraqi partners in a range of areas, from security procedures, basic infantry tactics, life-saving first aid and communications to advanced weapon skills and basic improvised explosive device awareness.

Soldiers from 3 SCOTS paraded through Inverness to mark their return from a tour of Iraq two weeks ago.

Prince Charles, who is Royal Colonel of 3 SCOTS, presented campaign medals and attended a reception at their base at Fort George near Inverness.

Lance Corporal Rebecca Rhodes, 3 SCOTS reflected on the royal visit:

"It's a big thing for the Regiment that the Duke of Rothesay has come up and presented the medals."

Major James Reid, 3 SCOTS added:

"It was a coalition effort and I think it was very professionally rewarding for the soldiers providing security to work alongside the Americans."  

3 SCOTS spent the first half of this year playing a vital role in the mission to help secure and stabilise Iraq.

Shortly after 3 SCOTS returned to the UK, Forces News joined 3 RIFLES as they prepared to deploy to Iraq

During their tour, 3 SCOTS worked alongside other nations, gaining experience manning security positions and honing their skills as a quick reaction force.

The soldiers also used their tour to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund, hosted a successful Highland Games and took part in various runs and activities hosted by other nations.