RAAF exercises Freedom of Entry to Canberra

The Royal Australian Air Force’s Number 28 (City of Canberra) Squadron today exercised its Freedom of Entry to the City of Canberra.

28 Squadron’s Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Karen Ashworth, said it was a privilege to lead the parade.

“We are proud to demonstrate our professionalism and commitment to the Canberra community through the Freedom of Entry ceremony. This event highlights our unique relationship with the city,” Wing Commander Ashworth said.

“Our Squadron has a very close bond with Canberra. The city is our home.

“This is our opportunity to demonstrate our commitment and gratitude to Canberra,” Wing Commander Ashworth said.

28 Squadron celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2013; the year of Canberra’s Centenary.

The members of 28 Squadron marched through London Circuit before being challenged by the Chief Police Officer of the ACT, Assistant Commissioner Rudi Lammers APM, to present the Freedom of Entry Scroll, and then continuing their march to Civic Square.

The granting of the ‘Freedom of Entry to a City’ to a military unit is a ceremony that has very old origins. The early history of Europe shows that walled cities and trained soldiers protected citizens from death or capture by marauding armies. The right of entry to a city by outside soldiers was therefore rarely granted.

Today, a ‘Freedom of Entry’ reflects the pride a local municipality has in its long associations with a military unit. 28 Squadron is very proud to have been granted this honour.

28 Squadron provides a diverse range of capabilities to Air Force and has been involved in Air Force operations locally and internationally. Members of 28 Squadron assisted to fight the devastating 2003 Canberra bushfires.

Media contacts:

Flying Officer Iain Slater 0404 214 421

Squadron Leader John Yialeloglou 0412 860 971

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999