Fresh home from one of the bloodiest tours in Afghanistan, Royal Marines from 3 Commando Brigade marched to the Houses of Parliament today, drawing crowds of wellwishers and curious tourists.

A lone protester, reportedly waving an Iraqi flag and shouting “Free Palestine”, also made a brief appearance, causing a minor disturbance at Parliament Square before being moved aside.

Lance Corporal Tim Skinner, 25, said that the parade meant a great deal. “It’s a really tough job that service people do and I don’t think civilians 100 per cent understand how tough it is. But it’s nice for them to come out and show a bit of support. It makes it worthwhile,” said the Marine from London, who was caught up in a number of firefights while patrolling in Helmand province.

The group of 120 Marines, representing different elements of the brigade, marched from Wellington Barracks, near Buckingham Palace, to the House of Commons, where they attended a drinks reception.

Some people waved Union Jack flags and cheered as the parade passed down the centre of the road, protected by police on horseback. “I am very proud,” said Jennifer Bradley, 57, of London, who attended with her daughter and two grandchildren to support her son, Corporal Mark Buckingham, who was taking part. “It is great for them to get recognised.”

Tammi Smith, 37, a tourist from Texas in the United States, said that her two young children loved watching the spectacle. “It is pretty neat,” she said. “It shows a sense of pride for the men who fought for us.”

The brigade, which returned from a six-month deployment to Afghanistan in April, lost 33 personnel — one of the highest casualty tolls for a brigade since the conflict began. The level was particularly significant because it happened during the winter, which typically less violent than the summer.

Bill Rammell, the newly appointed Minister for the Armed Forces, said that it was important to acknowledge the sacrifices and hard work of the military. “Today is about saying thank you and celebrating what they’ve achieved,” said Mr Rammell, who greeted the Marines at the afternoon reception.

Explore UK News

• Crime News

• Education News

• Health News

• Scotland News

Times Recommends

• The playboy and the Tory party leader
• Bin Laden's family tree is impenetrable jungle
• Paul McCartney