Homecoming Parade - 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards

Yesterday the whole town of Windsor celebrated the homecoming of our Coldstream Guards after a 6 month tour of duty in Afghanistan. These are the guards are situated in the Victoria Barracks over the road from us. We secured a place to stand on High Street opposite the Guildhall an hour and a half before they were due, and the crowd was thousands strong. James asked "Is the whole of Windsor here?" to which we replied "Yes!".

There were families with placards lining the streets to cheer for their men, and we all had flags to wave. James had bought his flute and kept us entertained for a bit! Although quite a wait it was lovely to soak up the sunshine on the warmest day of the year (so far). Just after 11.30 the marching parade of desert-uniformed soldiers trooped from their barracks, along the river and up Thames Street then into High Street past the Castle, giving their salute to their Colonel and the Lord Mayor of the Borough. They were accompanied by flag bearers and their regimental band.

The atmosphere was one of a great occasion, and the faces of the soldiers reflected the pride and appreciation of the British people. I think a few may have been a bit overwhelmed but it was obvious they were loving the adulation and very relieved to be home. It was very moving but for me brought the reality of war to Windsor. These weren't just guys parading around in fancy red uniforms, they has risked their lives. It was a befitting celebration and we are so fortunate to have been part of it.

Returning home we bought a picnic and took it out onto the Long Walk where we ate, played soccer and lay in the sun for a couple of hours.

Photos are here.