A "groundbreaking" online museum of poignant accounts from hundreds of war veterans has been launched at Edinburgh Castle following a three-year project by Museums Galleries Scotland.
Remembering Scotland at War features interviews, photos and footage from conflicts including the Second World War, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as interactive spots where visitors can add and discuss their own memories.
(Above) Re-enactors joined serving Scottish soldiers for the launch of the new website
"We have all been influenced by Scotland's involvement in war," said Joanne Orr, Chief Executive of MGS.
"With advancing technology, there are increasing options for the ways museums and galleries tell stories about their collections and how those stories affect individuals.
"By adding our memories and photographs, we can all contribute to a rich collection that benefits and challenges all generations. We have been delighted to lead this groundbreaking project."
A three-year project involving 13 Scottish venues has created the website
Accounts of German World War II Prisoner of War Camps, the destruction of the Clydebank Blitz and the army training schedule ahead of the current campaign in Afghanistan are among the inside stories revealed.
A dedicated learning centre for schoolchildren has also been created through a collaboration of 13 museums and galleries across Scotland as part of the Their Past Your Future scheme. It is funded by the Big Lottery Fund.
Veterans and civilians affected by war are invited to add their memories to the exhibition
Scottish Minister for Culture Fiona Hyslop said the exhibition was "an important resource which spans generation."
"I am sure the museum will be inspirational to younger people, fostering a greater understanding of the impact of war," she predicted.
"I hope that many more people take the opportunity to visit and interact with the online museum, whether by offering their stories or by learning more about the significant contribution Scots continue to make in the armed forces."
Visit the online museum at www.RememberingScotlandAtWar.org.uk.
