Scottish actor James Cosmo is set to narrate a special film marking 20 years of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, reciting a poem written by a serving soldier. The 78-year-old, known for his roles in Braveheart, Trainspotting and Game of Thrones, will voice the words of Corporal Fraser Hall, a 35-year-old father-of-three from Alloa.
A Poem Chosen for the Anniversary
Cpl Hall's poem was selected as the winner of a competition launched to mark the regiment's 20th anniversary. Known in the Army as SCOTS, the regiment was formed in 2006 and brings together regular and reserve soldiers serving across Scotland and around the world.
Having joined in 2007, just a year after the regiment was established, Cpl Hall drew on his own experiences to reflect on the different stages of military life, from joining as a cadet to eventually becoming a veteran.
Voices from Across the Military Journey
"I began as a cadet, then a soldier, and at some point, I’ll become a veteran," he said. "The video is a brilliant way of showing the past, present and future of SCOTS. And to have James Cosmo involved in reading my words is a huge honour."
Cpl Hall said he wanted his poem to recognise the regiment's history while also looking towards its future and the achievements still to come. "We’re a young Regiment, built on decades of proud history – but it’s important to be recognised for who we are now, what we have achieved so far and what we will achieve in the years to come," he shared.
Cosmo, who previously served as an Honorary Colonel for the regiment, said he was honoured to be involved in the anniversary celebrations and bring the soldier's words to life. "What struck me about the poem is that it respects where the regiment has come from while looking confidently to where it goes next," the actor said. "It has been written by someone who has lived much of that story himself, which gives the words a real authenticity."
A Film Representing Past, Present and Future
The short film combines Cosmo's narration with the voices of people at different points in their military journeys, including a cadet, a serving soldier and a veteran. Cpl Hall features as both the writer and a serving soldier, while 14-year-old Cadet Isabella Robertson, from Dunfermline, represents the next generation. Veteran Mark Ferguson, 32, from Hamilton, also features in the film, representing other stages of the military journey.
Mr Ferguson spent 13 years serving with the regiment's 4th Battalion, known as 4 SCOTS, before moving into a new career with the Fire and Rescue Service. He said his time in the regiment continues to shape who he is today, stating: "[the unit] will always be an important part of who I am and how I carry myself."
He added: "I’m a relatively young veteran, so it was a real privilege to come back and represent those who have served, as the regiment marks its first 20 years. I absolutely loved my time serving with SCOTS. The skills and experiences, memories and friendships I made will hold me in good stead for any future endeavours. Once a Jock, always a Jock."
Celebrating 20 Years
Cadet Robertson, who is part of the Dollar Academy Combined Cadet Force Contingent, said she was delighted to be asked to take part in the project. "I’m right at the beginning of my own journey, so being able to represent the next generation is something I’m proud of," she said. "I don’t know exactly where my future will take me yet but it’s inspiring to see where that journey could lead."
Major General Robin Lindsay, Colonel of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, said the poem was a fitting way to recognise the contribution of soldiers to Scotland's cultural heritage. "Cpl Hall’s poem to commemorate our 20th anniversary is such a contribution," he said. "He captures the thoughts of one of our own, through the life and growth of our regimental identity. His poem is a fitting way to celebrate those who have shaped our first 20 years and those who will shape the next."
The film forms part of a wider programme of activities taking place throughout 2026 to mark the regiment's 20th anniversary. It can be watched on the Royal Regiment of Scotland's official social media channels.
