Father-of-three’s poem wins competition launched to mark regiment’s 20th anniversary celebrations
Actor James Cosmo is set to bring a soldier’s words to life in a special short film marking 20 years of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
The 78-year-old, best known for his roles in Braveheart, Trainspotting and HBO series Game Of Thrones, will recite a poem written by serving soldier, Corporal Fraser Hall, from Alloa.
The 35-year-old father-of-three’s poem was selected as the winner of a competition launched as part of the regiment’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
Cpl Hall joined the regiment, referred to in the Army as SCOTS, in 2007, just a year after it was formed, and his poem is a personal reflection of his own 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.”
Reflecting on what inspired the poem, Cpl Hall said he wanted to create something that remembered the regiment’s roots but also focused on moving forward and looking to the future.
“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 said.
Mr Cosmo, who previously served as an Honorary Colonel for the Regiment, said it was a “real privilege” to recite Cpl Fraser’s words and to play a part in marking 20 years of the regiment.
“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.”
The film moves between Mr Cosmo and the voices of a cadet, a serving soldier – known as Jocks – and a veteran.
Cpl Hall speaks as both the poet and as a current serving soldier, with 14-year-old Cadet, Isabella Robertson, from Dunfermline, and 32-year-old veteran Mark Ferguson, from Hamilton, representing other stages of the military journey.
Mr Ferguson, who served for 13 years with 4th Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland (4 SCOTS), has moved on to a new career with the Fire and Rescue Service, but said his time with the unit “will always be an important part of who I am and how I carry myself”.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Ms Robertson, who is part of the Dollar Academy Combined Cadet Force Contingent, said it was “exciting” to be asked to take part in the film.
“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.”
Formed in 2006, the regiment brings together regular and reserve soldiers serving across Scotland and around the world.
The film forms part of a wider programme of activity taking place throughout 2026 to mark the 20th anniversary year.
Major General Robin Lindsay, Colonel of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, said Scottish soldiers have “consistently contributed to our cultural heritage in many different ways”.
“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 short film can be viewed on the regiment’s official social media channels.