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Freedom of the City
The Freedom of the City is one of the most prized honours that a community can bestow upon a military unit. Citizens of a municipality express their affection and esteem for a military unit by granting this honour. This gives a unit the privilege of marching through the community with drums beating, Colours flying and bayonets fixed. A community will grant freedom of the city for one of two reasons: the municipality has enjoyed a long and happy relationship with a unit; or, to mark a people's gratitude for heroic service.
The Story Behind the Ceremony
The Freedom of the City tradition originates from British military history. British cities of the past were opposed to having regular standing armies. They were against the warlike appearance of troops in the streets disturbing the peace and their ancient civic rights. Therefore, it became a custom for any military unit to request the permission of the chief magistrate, the lord mayor, before entering a community. City authorities would only grant permission once they were assured of the troops' best behaviour and the purpose of the presence.
Canadians Honoured
Canadian service men and women are held in high esteem in cities and countries throughout Europe for their efforts during the World Wars. One example of a Canadian battalion having been granted the Freedom of the City is the city of Ypres, Belgium. Ypres honoured the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry during the regiment's jubilee year of 1964 for its achievements during the First World War.
In April 2007, a Freedom of the City ceremony will take place in the City of Arras to coincide with the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge events. The Canadian Forces contingent will reflect the historical make up of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, with representation from all regiments and units that fought at Vimy. The event will start with a parade led by the Canadian Forces, which will make its way about four kilometres to City Hall. The parade will also be comprised of civilian bands and other groups from Canada and other countries. The Chief of Police will meet the Canadian unit and ask the Commanding Officer the purpose of their presence in the city. The Chief of Police will meet with the Mayor who will then present the Canadians with the Freedom of the City scroll. The parade and ceremony is expected to last up to an hour and a half.
