Gallery: Over 1,000 Estonian, NATO forces take part in Independence Day parade
Over 1,000 Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) and NATO allied troops took part in the annual military parade marking the 107th anniversary of Estonia's independence in Tallinn on Monday.
The parade was reviewed by President Alar Karis, and for the first time, it was led by the Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, Major General Andrus Merilo. The parade formation was organized for the last time by the Defence Forces' Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Enn Adoson.
A total of 1,075 participants and 47 pieces of military equipment took part in the parade, which included 40 flags, 11 companies, eight platoons, two orchestras, and four service dogs.
Also participating in the parade were the color guards of the Baltic Defence College, NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE), and NATO Force Integration Unit (NFIU). Among the allies, the Netherlands had a color guard present, as well as the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, who participated with both their color guards and units.
In addition to Estonian Defence Forces equipment, the parade showcased military equipment from NATO's enhanced Forward Presence battlegroup, including vehicles from the United Kingdom, France, and the United States.
Various aircraft from Estonia and allied forces performed a flyover during the parade.
Traffic and parking restrictions will be in place from Sunday, February 23 to Monday, February 24 inclusive, in Freedom Square (Vabaduse väljak) and adjacent streets, including Toompea, Harju, Kaarli, Mere, Pärnu, Narva, Falgi, and Roosikrantsi.
Other restrictions include a ban on civilian and unauthorized drones and other airborne devices, in the parade area.
Schedule for February 24
10:50 a.m. – Foot units assemble for the parade on Kaarli Boulevard. Combat vehicle columns assemble on Harju Street, Kuninga Street, Vene Street, and Viru Street.
11:10 a.m. – Flag officers and unit commanders bring their subunits to the parade ground.
11:30 a.m. – Units are in formation, and the flag of the Republic of Estonia is brought in (Tallinn, Freedom Square).
11:35 a.m. – Arrival of the commander of the Defense Forces and inspection of the units.
11:45 a.m. – Presentation of senior officer ranks.
12:00 noon – Start of the parade, arrival of the president of the Republic of Estonia.
Approximately 1:00 p.m. – End of the parade.
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Display of combat vehicles (Tallinn, Freedom Square).
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Editor: Merili Nael, Andrew Whyte, Helen Wright
