Sadly the day has come

[highlander_Daz]

I feel physically sickened about this, these mighty regiments that have protected Britain for generations for centuries and defeated Hitler and Saddam, wiped out by a disgrace of a Government that, the members none of which are fit to lick the boots of these servicemen and Women, The Black watch and Scots guards were both deployed in Iraq recently, and the very name of the Black watch strikes fear into the enemys hearts, Royal regiment of Scotland? whats this doing to troop morale, I really do despair!!

[cavscout]

This is a sad event. I never like to see the end of such an honorable era and brotherhood.

I'd also like to celebrate the honor these men are showing by submitting to the civilian leadership. This one special characteristic is what makes the militaries of our nations such an awesome weapon. In any muslim nation this would be a catalyst to a coup or rebelion. Our warriors have pledged an oath to the common welfare and even in this situation, maintain that oath.

I mourn with you brothers, but I commend you on your heritage which will not be forgotten and lost from us.

[Gillis13]

Is nothing sacred anymore? Seems the whole world wants to do away with anything that has anything to do with traditions... I have always heard "If it isnt broke dont fix it.

[Sindarius]

A sad, sad day indeed. Reading the article linked by Glassman made me feel physically ill. I will take some time to think on those lost regiments while I mourn.

[bubba]

First try was a crucified moose, now a crucified cat. Does that sum up Westminsters attitude toward the Scots?

[NewKilt]

Certainly a sad day. I know I will wear my Black Watch tartan with extra pride in honor of that great regiment. Honor all those regiments, least we forget.

Darrell

[macwilkin]

Certainly a sad day. I know I will wear my Black Watch tartan with extra pride in honor of that great regiment. Honor all those regiments, least we forget.

Darrell

Ironically, the Government Sett (Black Watch) will be the tartan of the Royal Regiment of Scotland -- all Battalions will wear kilts in it, which has made the Lowland regiments mad, since they traditionally wear trews.

Cheers,

Todd

[Bob C]

First try was a crucified moose, now a crucified cat. Does that sum up Westminsters attitude toward the Scots?

I never saw the "Moose" design, but the Lion Rampant and the St. Andrew's Cross are both revered symbols of Scotland. I don't see the emblem as a sign of disrespect.

As for the amalgamation, people like hanging onto things for sentimental reasons well past the time of their usefulness. If I were a UK citizen, I'd be glad my government was balancing sentimentality against fiscal prudence.

I'm ducking now. Loose your arrows.

[macwilkin]

I never saw the "Moose" design, but the Lion Rampant and the St. Andrew's Cross are both revered symbols of Scotland. I don't see the emblem as a sign of disrespect.

As for the amalgamation, people like hanging onto things for sentimental reasons well past the time of their usefulness. If I were a UK citizen, I'd be glad my government was balancing sentimentality against fiscal prudence.

I'm ducking now. Loose your arrows.

Bob,

I would suggest you read Diana Henderson's "The Scottish Regiments" to understand the regimental system of the British Army and the Scottish regiments in particular. We're not talking about things that have passed their usefulness, we're talking about pride, history and tradition of regiments that have served around the globe for hundreds of years -- Esprit-de-corps and regimental history is at the core of these regiments. Badges, hackles and tartans all stand for the bravery of those who went before.

And it's not the Lion Rampant and the Saltire that's the problem with the "crucified cat"; it's the fact that regimental badges, which have so much history and symbolism behind them, were replaced by something artificial.

Using your own logic then, the Tomb of the Unknowns in Washington is a waste of money and should be scrapped for "fiscal prudence" -- think about that.

(Disclaimer: I am not saying I believe that personally, for from it -- just trying to prove a point.)

"fiscal prudence" usually ends up getting squaddies killed.

Todd

[Rusty]

I won't let loose with any arrows as you are entitled to your opinion as the next person. However, as a British Ex pat living in the states these past few years and having served in her Majestys armed forces I believe the British goverments amalgamation of the Scottish regiments is short sighted for many reasons. The least not being the millions of $/pounds that is brought into the country by tourism. Apart from the armed forces doing a wonderful job as defenders of the realm they also provide a ceremonial function which attracts tourist which in turn is good for business. So now people can come to good old Blighty to see the generic march past of the whatevers.... Im sorry I will go away now....