AN ELLESMERE Port soldier made history by marching into the Houses of Parliament to mark the end of a dangerous six-month tour of Iraq.
Carl Roberts, sergeant of 2 Platoon, A Company, 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment, was recognised for his efforts in helping to bring security and stability to Basra Province.
He was among 120 troops from 4th Mechanized Brigade who marched from Wellington Barracks through Carriage Gates and into The Great Hall, having first been welcomed by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Mick Martin.
They were then led by the chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group, James Gray, for a commemorative photo.
It has been centuries since soldiers marched to Parliament. Back then it was not by invitation.
Sgt Roberts, whose tour in Iraq involved helicopter patrols and patrolling, said: “I am very proud to be here. I am of course disappointed that not all the platoon could be here as they have had a tough tour and this has been a fantastic day.
“It has been great to tell the MPs first hand what we were doing in Iraq. We were in some sticky situations but the young lads did really well. Being here is for all of them too.
“The kit is improving all the time and that is down to the young soldiers giving advice on how it works and then being listened to.
“Today has been a day to be proud of everything we have done – especially my platoon.”
Defence Minister Des Browne warmly welcomed the soldiers and made reference to the legacy for the people of Iraq that Sgt Roberts had contributed.
