THIS year’s church parade was the biggest since 1965. More than 300 people watched as troops from eight different units marched from the White Rock to the Quay.
The parade was led by the Royal Marine Band and it was followed by crew from HMS Kent, 213 Squadron Royal Signals, 201 Squadron Guernsey’s Own, Sea Cadets, the Elizabeth College CCF, Army cadets and Royal British Legion standard bearers.
The Chelsea Pensioners joined the end of the parade for the inspection by Lt-Governor Sir Fabian Malbon.
Parade commander Major Bob Place said he was thrilled by the quality of the parade.
‘I’m delighted with how it went,’ he said. ‘The effort put into it by all the young people involved is especially pleasing. The parade in 1965 was the biggest we have ever had, but this year’s is definitely the biggest since then.
‘It has been really nice to see so many visiting units because they are from all three services. And the weather held off, it didn’t rain at all, which we were very grateful for.’
The parade was a proud moment for Guernsey soldier Ash Jeyes as he led his men from the 213 Squadron Royal Signals, based in Northern Ireland.
Lieutenant Jeyes said it was fantastic for him to be able to bring his troop to the island.
‘It’s so nice to come back to the island and be proud of Guernsey,’ he said.
‘There is not normally a regular Army presence in the parade so it’s fantastic that I have been able to bring that presence this year.’
He said the experience was very different to what his troops were used to.
‘They have been honoured and humbled by the response they have had since they arrived in the island.
‘They have learnt a lot about Guernsey’s history and what Liberation Day means to the people of the island.’
Deputy Mike O’Hara, chairman of the Liberation celebrations working party, said the parade had a fantastic atmosphere.
‘It was really good to see so many people had come down to watch. The parade was especially good for me because I got to walk along the side of it and that made me really feel a part of it.’
Article posted on 10th May, 2007 - 12.00am
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