TA squadrons on parade to mark freedom of Wirral honour

Apr 25 2012 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

TWO Territorial Army squadrons marched through the centre of Birkenhead to mark being given the Freedom of Wirral.

The council awarded its highest honour to 107 (Lancashire and Chester) Field Squadron Royal Engineers (Volunteers) and 234 (Wirral) Transport Squadron Royal Logistical Corps (Volunteers).

Both squadrons are units of the Territorial Army with members currently deployed in Afghanistan. The award was in recognition of their “outstanding service” to the area.

The Freedom Parade to honour local troops took place on Saturday, culminating in a presentation at Hamilton Square, Birkenhead. It was supported by the Nottinghamshire Band of the Royal Engineers.

Following the presentation of the Freedom Scrolls, the Deputy Commander of Land Forces, Major General Gerald Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, presented Squadron Sergeant Major Derek Smith, Lance Corporal Chris Coney and Lance Corporal Mike White, all of 107 Field Squadron with Afghanistan campaign medals.

Major Colin Murray, the Officer Commanding 107 Field Squadron, part of 75 Engineer Regiment, said: “It was absolutely magnificent, particularly for those of us who live here, and I must say the presence of the band made it all the more special.”

Major Paul Pinchard, the Officer Commanding 234 Transport Squadron, part of 156 (NW) Transport Regiment, said: “It was a huge honour for the squadron – the highest that the borough can give to a Territorial Army unit. It is a reflection of the hard work the squadron has done.”

Freedom of Entry allows both squadrons to march through the streets of Wirral on all ceremonial occasions with drums beating, bands playing and flags flying.