On April 6, 2022, the Council for the Town of Qualicum Beach unanimously adopted the following resolution:
THAT the Council for the Town of Qualicum Beach bestows the right, privilege, honour, and distinction of marching with colours flying, bayonets fixed, and drums beating to 19 Mission Support Squadron, 19 Wing Comox within the bounds of the Town of Qualicum Beach.
"Freedom of the Town" is a historic ceremony with roots dating back to the 15th century when towns were endangered by invading military units. Before a military unit would be admitted to the town, the council would need to grant the unit "Freedom of the Town", which would entitle the unit to enter with drums beating, banners flying, and bayonets fixed. This high honour was only afforded to military units with a long and cooperative relationship with the municipality.
The Town of Qualicum Beach, in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 76, and 19 Mission Support Squadron (19 MSS), 19 Wing Comox, will celebrate the Freedom of the Town with ceremonies, a formal military parade through Town, and festivities on Saturday, May 7, 2022. The event will include a military fly-over and performances by the Esquimalt Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy.
Starting at 2:00 pm at the Civic Centre (747 Jones Street), in keeping with the historic ceremony, 19 MSS, will request permission of Council to march through Town. The Squadron will then parade from the Civic Centre to Town Hall (660 Primrose Street) where the Mayor will present the 'Key to the Town' to 19 MSS. After speeches and the playing of O Canada, the parade will continue to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 76, where there will be refreshments and entertainment.
The public are invited to attend this historic event and watch the parade from the Civic Centre to Town Hall on Second Avenue West.
For more information:
Contact
Mayor Brian Wiese
Town of Qualicum Beach
250-752-6921
