This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
The Isle of Wight Council has formally approved the granting of the honorary freedom of the Island to the Isle Wight Troop, 266 Port Squadron (Sqn) in recognition of its “distinguished record” and “eminent service” to Queen and country.
The squadron are part of 165 Port and Maritime Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps (RLC).
A motion approving the admission to the honour – in accordance with Section 249 (5) of the Local Government Act 1972 – was proposed by council chairman Councillor Charles Chapman, seconded by the council’s armed forces champion Councillor Ian Ward, and approved by members at a meeting of the Full Council on Wednesday (25 November).
The motion acknowledged the “bond of friendship” that has existed between the soldiers of 266 Port Sqn – formerly of the Isle of Wight Rifles – and the people of the Island for many years, and marks the commemoration this year of the centenary of the Gallipoli campaign in which members of the ‘Rifles’ played a major role during the First World War.
The freedom is conferred on the Troop and its officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers and serving soldiers – and awards “the distinction of marching through the streets of the Island on all ceremonial occasions with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying”.
Special ceremony
On Saturday (28 November) a special ceremony will be held in St Thomas Square, outside Newport Minster to mark the event at midday, following a parade of the local troop and band from Drill Hall Road, via the High Street through Newport town centre, from 11.50am.
Once the Freedom is granted, the troop and band will march through Newport St Thomas and St James’ squares and High Street back to Drill Hall Road. Some roads will be closed for the duration of the parade.
