WELLINGTON'S TERRITORIAL FORCE DESCRIBED AS EXEMPLARY
Monday 31 January 2005
A sub-unit of Wellington's part-time Army (Territorial Force) on Saturday, 29 January was the first Territorial Force unit to be awarded a Chief of Army's Commendation.
Bravo Company was awarded the Commendation for it's teamwork and superior achievement during the 2003-2004 training year. Considered the most exemplary Territorial Force sub-unit within the NZ Army it set the standard for innovative recruiting and training. The Wellington Company was described as having strong leadership, management and professionalism across all ranks.
The award came after Wellington and Hawkes Bay Battalion (7WnHB) marched the streets to exercise its right to the Freedom of the City.
Hundreds of people enjoyed the spectacle as the day was fine and the streets crowded with Saturday shoppers. Hundreds more watched the parade arrive in Civic Square where Mayor Kerry Prendergast inspected the troops before reading the charter and making a speech of welcome.
She said it was more than 70 years since Wellington soldiers were first granted the freedom of the city and acknowledged the support the Battalion has provided Wellington over the years and on behalf of all Wellington citizens she thanked the soldiers for their "contribution and commitment".
7WnHB Honorary Colonel, Colonel Ernie Gartrell said the day was first and foremost about the Battalion's continued association with the City.
ENDS
For further information contact Rebecca Reedy at Defence Public Relations on 04 496 0296 or 027 444 3404.
What is a Freedom of the City Parade?
A Freedom of the City Parade is a time honoured custom where a city formally grants a Military Regiment certain privileges, including the right to march ceremonially through the city with colours flying, drums beating and bayonets fixed, without further formal permission from the civic authorities.
The granting of the freedom of a city is a privilege not given or accepted lightly and involves obligations as well as privileges. It is a custom that recognises, cements and fosters the intimate association between the City and the Regiment - in which many of its citizens have been proud to serve.
This page was last reviewed 29 September, 2011 and is current.
