HMCS Unicorn Freedom of the City Parade and Recommissioning Ceremony take place on Saturday in Saskatoon.

Lieutenant Commander Mike Su, Commanding Officer of the Canadian Forces Naval Reserve division, says the event, which marks the continuation of the Naval Reserve’s centennial celebration, includes formal interactions between himself and representatives from the City of Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Police Service.

The parade is a tradition that dates back over 400 years. Lietenant Commander Su says the parade begins at HMCS Unicorn on 4th Avenue with military members and their weapons with bayonets fixed parading around the block and making a stop in front of City Hall, where the Police Chief will barricade the parade. The Commanding Officer will be escorted to the door of City Hall where he will knock on the door with the handle of his sword, and the Freedom of the City will be formally affirmed by the mayor.

Su says the event is not intended to be taken too seriously, and it is an opportunity for HMCS Unicorn members to reconnect with the city and answer questions from the public. He adds that the event has a noisy conclusion with several cannon blasts between 10:30 and 11:00am.

The reviewing officer for the parade will be Vice-Admiral (retired) Craig Baines, the 37th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.