The Army brigade responsible for managing military units in Scotland bid a “bittersweet” farewell to Stirling last week.
The formal move from Forthside Barracks of 51 Brigade and Army Headquarters Scotland to Redford Cavalry Barracks in Edinburgh took place last Friday, March 26.
Staff watched the ceremonial flag lowering and raising at both sites to mark the occasion.
Brigadier Robin Lindsay said: “Our move from Forthside brings bittersweet feelings, but I reflect on the fact that the long lasting links the Army has had with Stirling are being retained and I am proud to have had the chance to have been part of this living history.
“I am sure that the land will be put to good use in the delivery of the City Deal and that our legacy will be to the wider benefit of the local people.”
A number of dignitaries offered their farewells to the Brigade Headquarters, but were unable to attend in person due to current Covid-19 restrictions.
The Lord Lieutenant of Stirling and Falkirk Alan Simpson OBE said: “Because of its strategic importance, Stirling has, over the centuries, had a very close relationship with the military.
“In recent years the presence of the Headquarters 51st Infantry Brigade and Army in Scotland has been much appreciated by the people of Stirling.
“As they move to new quarters we wish them well in the future and we look forward to a continuing strong friendship and working relationship with them.”
Stirling Council Provost, Christine Simpson also offered the headquarters a fond farewell.
The brigade has moved locations as part of the Army Basing Plan. It will be based at Redford Barracks prior to its final destination, currently set as Leuchars Station in Fife.
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The site in Stirling is to be returned to the City of Stirling for future development, but some of it will be kept as the Regimental Headquarters of 225 (Scottish) Medical Regiment & D Company, 7 SCOTS.
Originally based in Perth it controls a mix of regular and reserve units in its 51 Brigade role and as Army Headquarters Scotland is responsible for all units in Scotland and the interaction with civilian society and government.
The Brigade is made up of military staff from across the Army and also a number of civil servants, with responsibility for the operational control of soldiers and for tasks like assisting civil society seen recently in the fight against Covid-19. It also looks after the welfare, training and movement of its units.
