Liverpool hosted a 'homecoming' parade of soldiers from 2nd Battalion (2 RIFLES) on Saturday 31st October 2009, following their return from action in Afghanistan.

Although based in barracks in Northern Ireland, The Rifles has close ties to Liverpool, recruiting many of its soldiers from the city.

About 180 soldiers from 2 RIFLES marched through the city, on a route from St George's Hall to Liverpool Town Hall, dressed in desert combat uniforms and led by the Band and Bugles of The Rifles. The soldiers marched at a rapid 140 paces a minute, a distinguishing characteristic of the infantry regiment.

The proceedings began at 11am at St George's Hall, where a wreath was laid at the nearby war memorial in memory of the 24 soldiers from the 2 RIFLES' bigger Battle Group killed in action during the six month operational tour in Helmand province. Thirteen of the 24 were Riflemen. None were from Merseyside.

Liverpool's Lord Mayor Councillor Mike Storey said:

"Liverpool has a long and proud tradition of honouring organisations that make a valuable commitment to this city, and indeed the country as a whole. We are all immensely proud of the service the regiment gives and we should never underestimate their contribution during peacetime and military operations. The regiment has provided an essential military role, serving in operations all over the world, risking their lives for the safety of others."

Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, Commanding Officer of 2 RIFLES, said:

"The commitment, courage and sheer grit of every man in the Battle Group throughout this tour in Afghanistan has been humbling, as has been the support and gratitude shown to them by family, friends and even strangers back home in the UK."