Garrison coordinator, Maj. Brent Kerr, and garrison Sgt. Maj., master warrant officer Joel Turnbull, were challenged.
Mayor Sandra Snow responded by saying loudly, “Who goes there?” Then Kerr requested the Freedom of the Town.
Kentville and the 5th Canadian Division Support Base (CDSB) Detachment (Det) Aldershot, its new name, marked a long-standing relationship on May 27.
During the formal ceremony Police Chief Ken Reade and the officers advanced on the front door of town hall and knocked three times.
That was followed by a general salute, the playing of the national anthem, a blessing and Mayor Snow’s inspection of the parade as civilians looked on.
Following proclamations and presentations, the parade marched past the town hall with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed, proceeding along Cornwallis Street.
The historical tradition is intended to signify respect for the detachment commonly called Camp Aldershot, its officers and personnel.
Members of the detachment were looking forward to the event,” said Maj. Kerr.
“It’s a great opportunity for people to see their friends and neighbours in the Canadian Armed Forces showing their support for the community.”
Mayor Snow, who is a retired military officer herself, was presented with a large, framed certificate marked the ceremony. It last took place in 2012.
Located just north of Kentville, 5 CDSB Det Aldershot supports individual training for Regular Force and Primary Reserve Canadian Army officers and soldiers from across Canada. It has approximately 54 personnel.
Currently, Det Aldershot supports the majority of training for 5th Canadian Division reserve units during the summer months, and supports leadership and basic training full-time throughout the year. The base also supports other government departments with training facilities. It is celebrating its 113th year in its current location.
The time-honoured tradition of the Freedom of the Town ceremony goes back to medieval Europe, and was originally granted to military units that had gained the trust of a municipality.
