Matthew (21) has been serving in Iraq with the 1st Battalion Parachute Regiment since 2008.

He said: "It was a real privilege to meet someone who has been in the army for 50 years. He has survived the Second World War and was still involved during the first Iraq war."

Matthew has been back for four weeks leave after troops were withdrawn
from Iraq and during that time sadly had to attend the funeral of one of his comrades who was killed in Afghanistan, only days before he was due to return home. He was only 31-years-old and leaves behind a girlfriend.

Matthew's mum, Susie, said: "The celebration was a poignant reminder that not all families have the joy and relief of welcoming their loved ones home.

"Our family was privileged to join with other supporters in George Square to celebrate the wonderful job our forces carry out. We are very grateful to them and very proud of Matthew in particular."