A visually impaired veteran from Perth says he is "truly honoured" to march in this year's National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in London, thanks to Sight Scotland Veterans.
John Reid, 71, who served for 19 years with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), will join fellow veterans from the UK the historic event. During his military career, John served around the world, including in Gibraltar, Germany and Northern Ireland. He now lives with glaucoma and has no peripheral vision on his right side following a head injury sustained during his service in Northern Ireland.
John said: "Remembrance is so important. It's about remembering all the people we have lost, not just during the two World Wars but in all the conflicts since. So many people gave up so much and we need to be thankful for that and remember what they did.
"I am truly honoured to be going to the Cenotaph Parade in London. It's something I never expected to be able to do. I've watched it on television before, but I never imagined I would be taking part myself.
"It will be a very proud and emotional day. I'll be remembering friends I've lost, thinking about my time in the service and all the people who are no longer here. It will also mean a lot to be marching alongside so many fellow veterans. We all share a special bond and understand what each other has been through.
"Remembrance is so important. It's about remembering all the people we have lost, not just during the two World Wars but in all the conflicts since. So many people gave up so much and we need to be thankful for that and remember what they did."
"I can't thank Sight Scotland Veterans enough for giving me this opportunity. It is such a special charity that does so much for visually impaired veterans.
"Many veterans have given so much for their country and then find themselves needing a little extra support because of sight loss. It can be isolating and it can knock your confidence, but the charity shows that doesn't have to be the case.
"Sight loss doesn't have to hold you back or stop you trying new things, visiting new places and making new friends. I've been coming to the Linburn Centre for around ten years and it has helped me enormously. The support, friendship and opportunities I've had through the charity have made a real difference to my life.”
John adds: "I'm incredibly proud to call myself a Sight Scotland Veteran and honoured to have the chance to represent the charity at the Cenotaph."
Helping veterans like John take part in life-changing experiences such as the Cenotaph Parade is only possible thanks to your support. Please donate today.
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