Listen
Launch of Scottish Poppy Appeal
27/10/2008
First Minister Alex Salmond officially launched this year's Scottish Poppy Appeal at a reception in Stirling Castle this evening.
The castle was lit up poppy red to mark the occasion, with over 400 people in attendance, including fundraisers, volunteers, and veterans.
During the evening the First Minister was presented with a poppy from Flanders Fields by Bob and Jem Wright on behalf of all families who have lost their loved ones in Afghanistan and Iraq. The poppy was parachuted in earlier by the Golden Lions.
The First Minister said:
"Poppy Week marks an important time of remembrance and reflection. It is a time when we give pause for thought and pay tribute to the many Scottish servicemen and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our country. This year has added significance, as we commemorate the 90th anniversary of the end of the Great War.
"It is the sacrifice of all those who have served in battle which has preserved our values, protected our way of life, and enabled us to enjoy the freedoms which so many of us take for granted today.
"Today our veteran's community continues to make a great contribution to Scottish society. This week we also have an opportunity to demonstrate our gratitude and recognition to them.
"The Scottish Government is determined to do all it can to care and provide for the men and women who protect us. That is why, in November, we extended NHS priority treatment to include those who have served in the Armed Forces. We have established a £500,000 pilot to spearhead improved mental healthcare for veterans. We have also established, for the first time, a Scottish Veterans Fund providing £240,000 over the next three years to assist our veteran community.
"Tonight we remember that the way we live today is because of the bravery and fortitude of our forces, and the sacrifices they are willing to make on our behalf. I hope that over the next week, as a nation, we will all take the time to honour their memory and wear our poppies with pride."
The Golden Lions are Scotland's only professional parachute display team, entertain crowds across the country, while representing the local battalions of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.