RAAF’s Darwin freedom
FOR the first time since 1966 the Royal Australian Air Force marched down the streets of Darwin in a historic tradition. The Freedom Parade, which harks from medieval times, was held on Saturday as a sign of respect between the city and the armed forces, but it was only the second time the Royal Australian Air Force had ha taken part in the proceedings. proceedin
Darwin Darwi RAAF base commanding mandin officer Wing Commander mand Andros (Andrew) Anthony Ant said the commemorative me parade was about ab exercising the right r to enter the city. “It’s a medieval tradition that dates back through the years for military units that have shown good behaviour and been allowed into fortress as a result of good behaviour,” Cdr Anthony said. “But today’s era it is the highest accolade a city can give to a military unit and we are very proud to be exercising that here in the City of Darwin.”
The Royal Australian Air Force was asked to represent all military in the Territory as 2021 marked 100 years of service.
The ceremony is held between the keepers of the city, usually the mayoral office or local police and the military, in this case representatives of the Lord Mayor challenged the air force and permitted entry.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the tradition was an important part of upholding the city’s long history with the military.
“It is always an honour to be able to welcome the air force into our city…after all they are also part of our community,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“Traditions like this give the defence force an opportunity to gauge the support of the people and the people to gauge the support of the defence force, it is a two-way avenue.”