Mayor grants Freedom of City to HMCS Cataraqui

With drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed, HMCS Cataraqui was granted Freedom of the City, Sunday.
Prince Edward County Mayor Peter Mertens bestowed the prized honour on the Kingston Naval Reserve Division. The unit marched from the Crystal Palace to Shire Hall for the ceremony that marks gratitute and a long and happy relationship with the unit.

“I, Peter Mertens, mayor of the County of Price Edward, hereby proclaim and grant to Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Cataraqui, the Freedom of the City and all the rights and privileges pertaining thereto; as long as the waters of the Bay of Quinte meet Lake Ontario and embrace the shores of said town, to enter therein and march throughout its streets on any and all thoroughfares and highways without hinderence and trespass on any and all occasions with drums beating, flags flying and bayonets fixed.”

The Freedom of the City tradition originates from British military history and cities against the warlike appearance of troops in the streets. It became customary for any military unit to request the permission of the chief magistrate, the lord mayor, before entering a community. City authorities would only grant permission once they were assured of the troops’ best behaviour and the purpose of the presence. Freedom of the City is now a ceremonial honour.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78, Picton, hosted the unit after the ceremony.