Preparations for Independence Day Parade Under Way
About 1,000 military personnel are busy preparing for the traditional Independence Day parade, taking place in Tartu this Friday at 12:00.
Personnel from the infantry, signal corps, cadet, anti-aircraft, artillery, naval and air defense units are all practicing the marching steps and traditional greeting to the president. They will be accompanied by a motorcade of armored vehicles, and the combined orchestras of the Defense Forces and the Police and Border Guard Board.
“Their will and readiness to fight for Estonia is the same as that of those university students who, wearing those same colors, volunteered for action in the War of Independence," said Capt. Madis Morel, northern defense district commander of ceremonies, speaking of the members of student fraternities serving voluntarily in Estonia's territorial army, the Defense League, participating in the parade.
The dress rehearsal will take place on Thursday from 20:30 to 23:00 in Tartu. During the parade, traffic will be closed partially or completely on Vabaduse Puiestee, Narva Maantee, Riia Maantee and Võru Tänav.
February 24 will mark Estonia's 94th Independence Day.
Ott Tammik