Hundreds watch military parade along seafront

Military personnel were stationed along the seafront to be inspected by Lt-Governor Lt General Richard Cripwell and Bailiff Richard McMahon.

One member of the audience who attended to watch his son in the parade said that it was impressive to see all areas of the military forces in Guernsey in one place.

‘I’m very proud that he is taking part in such an important celebration,’ he said.

Lt General Cripwell and Mr McMahon walked around each military group as they stood to attention for their inspection.

This involved speaking about the roles of each division and what their roles are, and also checking their uniforms were all correct.

The Lt-Governor was introduced to the divisions by Bob Place of the Royal British Legion Guernsey.

‘It was good marching with so many people, I enjoyed it and it was great to be part of something like this,’ said Elizabeth College CCF cadet Sam Brown.

‘I’ve done Remembrance Day parades but this felt a bit different because it was for something which means a lot to local people and there were different people marching with us.’

Twins Alfred and Albert Marquis, aged 11, took part in the parade as Sea Cadet Juniors.

They are named after their grandfathers who were both in the armed forces.

They joined the cadets at the beginning of the year and only took part in their first parade at the weekend for the King’s Coronation.

‘We had to learn how to march beforehand but I wasn’t really nervous because there were so many people doing it,’ said Alfred.

‘I want to be a marine when I’m older.’

Military cadets and personnel marched along the seafront and up Fountain Street, congregating in Church Square, as members of the Royal Court, Chelsea Pensioners, Bailiff and the Governor entered the Town Church for a thanksgiving service.