Hi guys, I am a new member, long time lurker of the forum, and I am happy now to be registered so I can share, ask questions, and be a part of this community.

I grew up in Canada and immigrated to the US after College. At the age of 17 I joined the 48th Highlanders of Canada (Canadian Army Regiment), and was well indoctrinated to the rich traditions of a Highland Regiment. You never leave a regiment like this, you become an Old Comrade, and can be just as active in social gatherings, Regimental Balls, Mess dinners, etc. In my time in the 48th, we also did exchanges with our sister regiment, the Gordon Highlanders, which became the Highlanders and then The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

I will never forget the Gordon's coming to Canada to take part in our 100th Anniversary (1991) snapping pictures of us in our scarlet tunics, and feather bonnets. I was very confused by this until I asked one of their Sgt's about it. He explained that we were a snapshot, or a living tribute to his regiments history, as UK MOD budget cuts and amalgamation over the years modernized their uniforms and traditions erasing much of the specific identity each regiment had. I suppose it is true, and I offer the comparison of hearing Gaelic spoken in Nova Scotia. It is Gaelic of 200 years ago.

Anyway, enough of the long introduction. Here is a video of my long time friend, Kevin Brogan (also a retired 48th Highlander) doing the address to the Haggis at a R. Burns dinner this year. His interpretation, and animation really gives appreciation to every word of the Poem.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THulXsZteuE