"A single bell tolls as the hearse slowly comes to a halt. Some heads bow, some arms are raised in firm salute and the high street falls silent. Another repatriation means another flag-draped coffin and another tribute from the people of Wootton Bassett.

If any town can really know the raw reality of the risks taken and sacrifices made by those now serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, it is this small north Wiltshire market town, near Swindon. The tangible evidence is in front of them, week after week.

Friday saw them on the streets once more; hundreds turned out to pay their respects to a soldier fallen while serving his country. All know his name, his age, his regiment, and the manner of his death. Ranger Justin James Cupples, 29, from the 1st Battalion, the Royal Irish Regiment, who died in an explosion on foot patrol in southern Afghanistan is the 99th victim of the Iraq and Afghan conflicts to be repatriated through nearby RAF Lyneham. Tommorow they will congregate again to honour the 100th victim to be slowly led through the town and many will weep.

‘The people of Wootton Bassett have been there for each and every one of them,’ said Anne Bevis, secretary of the local Royal British Legion. And it is in recognition of this that the town’s residents will line the streets once more next month. This time, though, the tribute being paid is to them. A military parade is to be held in their honour on 12 October as the armed forces say thank you for the unswerving support shown during these difficult times.

It’s an honour welcomed by mayor Michael Leighfield. ‘It’s something we wish Wootton Bassett didn’t have to be recognised for. But we are very proud. It’s a hell of a tribute.’

But the army, airforce and navy see the people of Wootton Bassett as unsung heroes during these trying times. To them it is the town that cares when soldiers fear wearing uniforms in public in some places, or face being turned away from hotels, and when arguments rage over homecoming parades.