Cadets march through Perth
With swords drawn, drums beating and banners flying, more than 1000 members of 7WG Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) exercised their Freedom of Entry to the City of Perth on September 13.
The parade commemorated the 85th anniversary of the AAFC and 10 years since Freedom of Entry was granted to 7WG by the City of Perth.
Freedom of Entry parades date back to medieval times, when a city would grant a foreign force the right and privilege to enter the city, and include a challenge by the City Marshal to prove the unit has the authority to march through.
OC 7WG WGCDR Damian Lambert highlighted the significance of being granted Freedom of Entry.
“A Freedom of Entry is the highest honour a city can bestow upon a military unit and demonstrates the significant impact we have on communities like the City of Perth,” WGCDR Lambert said.
“This parade showcases the development and commitment of our members to the organisation, and celebrates our heritage.”
'The Air Force Cadets has truly shaped who I am and given me so many skills and opportunities to develop as a young leader.'
Following the parade was a Defence and aerospace careers expo at Langley Park with a number of organisations aligned to the interests of cadets, as well as a PC-21 flying display courtesy of 2FTS.
CWOFF Sam Bernacki said it was a huge honour to participate in this rare opportunity.
“To be one of the many cadets marching through Perth today was a surreal experience,” CWOFF Bernacki said.
“The Air Force Cadets has truly shaped who I am and given me so many skills and opportunities to develop as a young leader.”
City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said it was a privilege for the city to host the parade to recognise the organisation’s longstanding contributions to WA’s young people and the broader community.
“Freedom of Entry represents the trust, respect and partnership between the City of Perth and the AAFC,” Mr Reynolds said.
“While the ceremony reflects centuries of military heritage, it is also about celebrating the future and recognising the important role 7WG plays in inspiring and developing the next generation of Western Australian leaders.”
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