Mauritius’ 47th Independence Day anniversary |21 March 2015

Seychelles’ defence forces take part in celebrations
 
A group of Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF) service personnel returned in the country this week after taking part in the military parade to commemorate Mauritius’ 47th Independence Day anniversary on March 12, 2015.  

The SPDF’s involvement came after Seychelles responded positively to the invitation of the Mauritian government to send a military contingent to march alongside the Mauritian disciplinary forces and other foreign military contingents in this year’s parade.

During the ceremony, the 11 SPDF personnel – eight males and three females – representing the Coast Guard, Air Force, Army and Special Forces marched proudly behind their flag bearer, Warrant Officer Class One, Longin Nicette.

Under the command of Captain Jude Raoul, the squad put up an impressive display along the Champs de Mars, and was applauded intensely as they goose-stepped and saluted the dignitaries, including the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who was the guest of honour at the event.

It was a memorable experience for the troops who were representing the country for the first time at this event.

Besides Mauritius and Seychelles, the French forces based in Reunion and a contingent from the Indian Navy also took part in the parade.