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Corps family joined by 1664 Challenge runners at annual Spean Bridge parade
12 July 2017
Members of 43 Commando from HM Naval Base Clyde travelled to Fort William to join the Annual Royal Marines Association (RMA) parade at the poignant Spean Bridge Memorial on Sunday 10 July.
The monument was originally built to mark the sacrifice of Commandos during WWII but over the years has come to mean so much more.
It dominates the rugged landscape which is the former training ground of the early Commandos who trained at the nearby Achnacarry estate.
Members of the Royal Marines Association were joined by members of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines, Royal Marines Band Scotland and this year by the runners taking part in the RM 1664 Challenge.
The RM 1664 Challenge, in aid of the Royal Marines Charity, sees two runners joined by personnel from Royal Marines units across the country complete 16.64 miles per day for 100 days.
The number 1664 has always had a symbolic significance for the Royal Marines, as it was the year of the forces' birth, this year marking the 353rd Anniversary.
It's really important that we support the RMA and the wider Corps family and today has been an excellent day despite the weather
The responsibility for the 1664 Challenge Baton is currently with 43 Commando and will remain so until Friday, July 14 when it is passed on to 24 Commando Regiment, Royal Engineers.
The parade consisted of a short service conducted by Padre, Rev'd Richard Rowe RN, followed by a march past which was occasionally in-step.
In attendance to take the salute was Brigadier Richard Spencer OBE, Deputy Commandant General Royal Marines and Vice Chairman of the Royal Marines Charity.
Lieutenant Ryan Taylor, of R Squadron, 43 Commando, who was in command of the serving contingent said, "It's really important that we support the RMA and the wider Corps family and today has been an excellent day despite the weather."
On completion of the parade all attending were invited back to the Ben Nevis Hotel, in Fort William, for lunch and a chance for the serving personnel and veterans to exchange stories.
Those wishing to donate to the 1664 Challenge can do so at:
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/43commando
or by texting: GLOB17 £5 to 70070 (automatic £5 donation).