1970 - 2006

On ceremonial duties in No 1 Dress, Edinburgh, c 1990s.

Overview, 1970 - 2006

On returning to England the astonishing decision to disband the Argylls came as sad and unwelcome news, however, thanks to the "Save the Argylls" campaign, which received world wide support, the decision was rescinded. The Battalion was reduced to Company strength but in 1972 was re-formed. The re-formation took place at Kirknewton, since when the Battalion has seen service in Northern Ireland on a large number of occasions, Osnabruck, Catterick, Ballykelly, Cyprus, Edinburgh, the Falkland Islands, Colchester and once again BAOR, this time Minden, Folkestone and Edinburgh where Her Majesty presented new colours to the Battalion in 1996.

The Threat of Disbandment, 1970-1972

In 1970, the Regiment came under threat of disbandment because of the Labour government’s army cuts. In reaction to the threat a huge ‘Save The Argylls’ campaign was launched.

Northern Ireland, 1972

The 1st Battalion has undertaken several tours in Northern Ireland since it was first sent there in 1972. The Battalion was involved in mounting foot, vehicle and helicopter-borne patrols, searching for weapons and explosives, undertaking internal policing duties, setting up vehicle check points and manning permanent ones. Tragically several soldiers from the Battalion lost their lives during the troubles and over the years the Regiment has had to adapt its role to the ever-changing situation in the country.

Iraq

Historical background to the Iraq War
Mesopotamia, known as the "Cradle of Civilisation", was home to some of the oldest civilisations in the world and is nowadays better known as Iraq. Iraq is located in the Middle East and bordered by Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Kuwait and Turkey.