REGINA – A procession of over 100 members of the Canadian Armed Forces marched through Regina Saturday afternoon in a re-enactment of a Freedom of the City ceremony.
This practice dates back to 15th century England during the War of the Roses. Cities were frequently being attacked by military units on both sides of the conflict. Cities barred their gates to the military and would only admit them under special circumstances. The Chief Constable would demand to know their intentions and then escort the leaders to city council. If council felt the unit could be trusted they would be granted the privilege known as Freedom of the City.
Now these ceremonies are commonly held between local branches of the Armed Forces and the communities they serve to reinforce ties.
It also now acts as a way of paying respect to these men and women.
Local branches honoured at the ceremony included The Royal Regina Rifles, 10 Field Artillery Regiment, 38 Signal Regiment Detachment Regina, 38 Service Battalion, 16 Field Ambulance, 15 Wing Moose Jaw, and the HMCS Queen.
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