Thanks to David Rayner from Abingdon Walks for this picture and the next.
See more of his pictures and the big versions
on his site .
The crowd included family members with this a 'Daddy You're My Hero' banner.
Brigadier Chris Murray, the commander in chief of the Army Logistics Corps, gave an excellent speech welcoming the troops back from Afghanistan and thanking the people of Abingdon. Currently, he said, the troops are being shown more public support than at any time he could remember.
The Mayor and other dignatories presented medals.
Lt. Col. Nigel Allison then asked the Mayor whether they army could exercise the Freedom of the Town.
They were led by the band...
and marched in close formation with bayonets fixed.
At the BBC Oxford Stall, they were asking people to record a Christmas message for the troops still out there, and this one time soldier was very pleased to oblige. Thanks to Steve for most of the pictures.