Cromwell Lock 50th anniversary

They came in their numbers to remember the ten young men who died on a Territorial Army exercise 50 years before: from veterans to toddlers, all stood in silent tribute to those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

Lord Lieutenant of Stirling and Falkirk Charles Wallace told those present that the ten young men had left behind an “enduring legacy” which was not to only remember them in grief but to keep them in everyone’s hearts. He said their deaths had shocked their families, comrades and communities to the core.

Provost Robert Bissett said: “The fact that these soldiers died during a training exercise and not on the field of battle makes little difference.”

He then spoke of the impact the tragedy had on the area, saying: “In the days and weeks that followed there was an outpouring of grief and sympathy for these young men and their families, and today we send our deepest condolences to the families who are still with us. What a burden of grief to carry all these years.”

Sunday’s event was organised by the Airborne Engineers Association Scotland branch with chairman Andy Nelson speaking on behalf of the families to thank everyone for attending.