Freedom Of Dundee For The Royal Regiment Of Scotland

For the first time in more than 70 years a military unit is to be given the Freedom of the City of Dundee.

The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) will receive the honour at a special ceremony in the City Square on Saturday (June 20) following a city centre parade.

This is the first time that Freedom of the City has been conferred on a military unit since the Black Watch were given the honour in 1954.

The Freedom of the City of Dundee is a prestigious honour awarded to those who have made a significant contribution to the city and military units who have gained the city’s trust. This honour is conferred by Dundee City Council and signifies the recipient’s status as a valued member of the community.

The tradition of granting the Freedom of the City dates to medieval times and has evolved into a modern ceremonial event which affirms the bond between the regiment and its citizenry.

Lord Provost Bill Campbell who will confer the honour from the balcony of City Chambers, said: "The Freedom of the City is not only a symbol of honour but also a recognition of our long and proud history.

"It is a testament to the city’s commitment to its residents and its recognition of the public service of its citizens, national and international figures and trusted military units."

Historically, the freedom of the city gave honoured military units permission to march into the city with "drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed".

Notable previous recipients include HM the Queen Mother, Nelson Mandela and prime ministers William Gladstone, Arthur Balfour, HH Asquith, David Lloyd George and Stanley Baldwin. Former Dundee United manager Jim mclean was given the Freedom of the City in 1993.

Colonel of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Major General RRE Lindsay CBE said “The Royal Regiment of Scotland is deeply honoured to be granted the Freedom of the City of Dundee. This proud distinction reflects the enduring connection between the Regiment and the people of Dundee- one shaped by shared heritage, service and steadfast support over many years. We look forward to marking this significant occasion and celebrating alongside the community.”

A parade of serving soldiers from The Royal Regiment of Scotland, starting at 12 noon will take place at Euclid Street/Crescent, Meadowside, Ward Road, West Marketgait, Nethergate, High Street and into City Square where the Salute will take place.

This will mean that parking and other restrictions will be in place at various locations. Drivers are encouraged to ensure that they follow instructions in signage and other traffic control measures on the day.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend, along the route and in City Square.

Notes to Editors

The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) is the senior line Infantry regiment of the British Army. Formed on 28th March 2006, it was founded on the fighting heritage of historic Scottish Infantry Regiments representing over 390 years’ continuous service to the crown. Our motto is 'Nemo Me Impune Lacessit' (No one provokes me with impunity) – shared with the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest order of chivalry.

Since its formation, The Royal Regiment of Scotland has deployed to almost every theatre of operations the British Army has been involved in; conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia and Norther Ireland, supporting peace operations in Cyprus, West and North Africa, disaster relief in the Caribbean and giving support to UK Civil Authorities to deal with wild-fire, flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent years, SCOTS soldiers have had key roles in NATO Response Forces, partnered US forces in training in the US and Europe.