The Municipality of Meaford invites residents and visitors to witness a historic military tradition on Friday, July 18, outside of Meaford Hall as the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre(4 CDTC) is granted the ‘Freedom of the City’ in a formal public ceremony.
“This event marks a significant moment in our shared history and reflects the growing relationship between the Municipality of Meaford and the military base,” said Mayor Ross Kentner. “Many people live and work at the base every day — they are vital members of our community. We are honoured to host this rare and meaningful ceremony, and I look forward to seeing participation from the greater Meaford community.”
The mayor and Council will participate in the ceremony, along with the Fire Department, community partners, and over 200 uniformed personnel from the base.
Dating back to ancient times, the Freedom of the City is a symbolic gesture of trust and honour between a municipality and a military unit. It grants the military the right to march through the community “with drums beating, colours flying, and bayonets fixed.” Meaford first granted this honour to the Base Commander of 4CDTC in 1995, and this year, the community is once again invited to take part in a meaningful reenactment followed by a community lunch at the arena.
Event Schedule:
- 10 a.m. – Parade begins, proceeding along Bridge Street, Bayfield Avenue, and Nelson Street, to Meaford Hall.
- The Fire Chief will ceremonially ‘challenge’ the troops before they are welcomed by the mayor at the doors of Meaford Hall.
- The mayor will sign a ceremonial scroll granting the Freedom of the City.
- Parade continues to the Cenotaph and concludes at the Meaford & St. Vincent Community Centre.
- 12 p.m. – Complimentary public luncheon with refreshments (cash bar available).
