THEY came in their hundreds to salute the heroes who fearlessly put their lives on the line in Afghanistan.
For six months, brave troops from the 1st Battalion Royal Anglian Regiment tackled the Taliban in 50 degree heat, mountainous terrain and energy-sapping deserts and jungles.
, they took the deserved plaudits of veterans, shoppers and residents in their regimental home town of Bury St Edmunds.
The market town came to a standstill as excited residents, schoolchildren and community leaders alike paid tribute to the servicemen, known as the Vikings, while many did anything they could for a good vantage point - from office windows to standing on benches.
The parade marks the regiment's return from Afghanistan
Soldiers were taken aback by the strength of feeling on the historic streets. As well as saluting the troops, including many who were injured in the conflict, thoughts and prayers also turned to the nine members of the battalion who did not return home alive.
Major Mark Nicholas said: We are a big family and everyone fought and lived together in an intense tour of duty. When we lose someone, it obviously affects everyone. We don't have time to grieve but we will never forget.
The horrors of war were truly apparent for 20-year-old private, Michael Smith, who suffered broken ribs in a bomb blast which claimed the life of regimental colleague Lance Corporal Alex Hawkins.
Private Smith, of Romford, Essex, said: I was in the back of a vehicle which was attacked and blew up. Alex was in the front, it was a big shock at first as I was not aware of what was happening. It felt like the world had slowed down. It makes you realise how lucky we are and it is great to have such a brilliant turnout.
The battalion exercised the freedom of the borough of St Edmundsbury after the operation in the Helmand Province and paraded on the Angel Hill and neighbouring streets to celebrate the regiment's homecoming.
Speaking at the ceremony, St Edmundsbury mayor, Margaret Charlesworth, said: I am sure everyone here shares an enormous respect and admiration for the way these people have gone about their duties. I know what a professional, determined and skilled job they have done.
General John McColl, colonel of the Royal Anglian Regiment, said: The battalion's achievement came at a cost with some suffering serious injuries and they will need our help and support for years to come.
We also lost nine members, wonderful young men who will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with their close friends and family.
It is hugely important we have the understanding and support of those we serve and the marvellous turnout in Bury indicates we have that support.
This view was shared among the crowd where many, old and young, travelled for miles to participate. Glenys Harrison, 57, who had travelled to Suffolk from her home in Somerset, said: This makes you proud to be British. The soldiers are just kids and it is marvellous that so many people have come out to support them. We should value these people and say well done as you can't put a price on what they have done for our country.
Emma Cadman, 18, from Needham Market, whose brother Dave was on the tour of duty, said: It was very worrying when he went out and he was only able to send a few letters. You did keep thinking about him but when he came home it was just brilliant to see him. The overwhelming emotion was certainly relief.
The celebrations were capped by brewing giants Greene King, where staff gave away hundreds of free pints to welcome back the troops
Please Support Vikings currently On Tour by Buying a "Support Vikings in Afghanistan" Charity Wrist band-
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Gurkhas parade in Folkestoneby 404stephen26,925 views
It was an honour to be on duty that day. Welcome home lads, your a credit to our country and the British Army.
24899848 1 year ago
oh ye boys welcome home and good luck for the future ur a credit to our country ,how more proud could i be am crying lol xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
ruthio1 2 years ago