27 April 2015
On 9 May, for the first time, serving forces from all three military units to have been granted the formal freedom to march in Jersey will parade together as part of the Liberation 70 commemorations.
The Freedom Parade will be the final element of the Liberation Grand Parade, which is part of the celebrations to mark the end of Jersey’s occupation by Nazi forces and will include 1,000 people.
A total of around 200 military personnel will form the Freedom Parade, representing:
- HMS Iron Duke (given the freedom of Jersey following approval by the States in February 2015)
- The Jersey Field Squadron Royal Engineers
- The Prince of Wales Royal Regiment
They will march from the Royal Square, via the Pomme d’Or, led by the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines (Collingwood), to People’s Park. At People’s Park, Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex will take the salute, and HMS Iron Duke will be presented with official confirmation that they have been granted the Freedom of Jersey.
A unique event
David Filipponi, Chief Officer of the Bailiff’s Chambers, said “This unique event will be a fitting part of the celebrations that are planned for Liberation 70 and will underline the strong association that Jersey already has with HMS Iron Duke. It is the first time that all three units to have been given the Freedom of Jersey will parade together.”
The Freedom to March grants honoured military units of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces with a close connection to a community, the right to march through the streets of the respective city, town or jurisdiction ‘with Colours flying, drums beating and bayonets fixed’. This honour acknowledges the affiliation with a unit, company or regiment, and demonstrates the community’s appreciation for their long and dedicated service.
A thousand people involved in Liberation Grand Parade
A contingent of 150 military and civilian period vehicles will lead the Liberation Grand Parade to People’s Park, where they will become a static display.
They will be followed by parades led by the Jersey Scout Band, Jersey Pipe Band, and the Band of the Island of Jersey.
Free tickets for seating are available for anyone who wishes to see the Liberation 70 celebrations in People’s Park. Tickets are available from the Bailiff’s Chambers and Visit Jersey. There is also plenty of open space for those who prefer not to be seated.
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