IAN BRUCE,
Defence Correspondent
Glasgow Herald
November 11 2005
The Black Watch and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards have won the right to carry the battle-honour "Al Basrah" on their regimental standards after playing a leading role in the capture of Iraq's second city in 2003.
Both Scottish regiments also have the right to the theatre honour "Iraq, 2003" in an order approved yesterday by the Queen.
All 12 of the units from UK 1st Armoured Division which took part in the siege of Basra and the final assault which broke Iraqi resistance on the edge of the city are to receive the battle-honour.
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The award will be the last granted to any of Scotland's six existing infantry regiments before they are effectively disbanded and reformed into battalions of the controversial new Royal Regiment of Scotland next year.
The Irish Guards were given special permission to use the Iraq campaign honour to enable it to be emblazoned on their standards for the Trooping the Colour ceremony in June.
Adam Ingram, the armed forces minister, said yesterday: "These honours represent a historic and traditional means of recognising the immense efforts British soldiers have made in bringing democracy to Iraq. Our soldiers and their families can be very proud of the role they have performed and the sacrifices they have made to guarantee a brighter future for the people of Iraq."
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