Historical information

The Right, Title, Privilege, Honour and Distinction of marching through the streets of a city on all ceremonial occasions with bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying is one of the most interesting of the Military Traditions.

The tradition of Freedom of Entry to a city stems from a custom observed by British Regiments in marching through the city of London. The fathers of the city of London claimed that they had the right to forbid bodies of Armed Forces from marching through the city precincts with bayonets fixed, colours flying and music playing, basing this claim on 'Ancient Privileges' which appear to have originated shortly after Charles Il became King in 1660. Military units were then only allowed to enter the city by invitation.

The custom has been adopted by many Australian cities and shires. The privilege is usually only extended to Units which have a close association with the city and provides a means of honouring an Army Corps. The Freedom of the City of Wodonga has been conferred on different units based at Bandiana on several occasions.

This Certificate commemorates the granting of Freedom of the City of Wodonga on the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the Vietnam and Associated Veterans Club which was accompanied by a military parade on 11th August 2003.

Significance

This Certificate is significant because it recognises the relationship between the City of Wodonga and the military forces which have served in the district.

Physical description

A framed certificate declaring the granting of Freedom of the City of Wodonga to Veterans, Ex-service and Service men and women of Australia who served Australia since the cessation of hostilities of the second World War. It bears the common seal of the City of Wodonga and was signed by Mayor Lisa Mahood, Councillor John Watson and Chief Executive Officer Peter Marshall.