Royal Roads marks 75th anniversary – Sunset Ceremony rekindled
Article by: Dave Bindernagel
On Saturday, 25 April, the 2015 Sunset Ceremony conducted at Royal Roads to recognize 75 years of excellence in leadership and education was a complete success. Blessed with sun and clear skies throughout the ceremony, the approximately 2500 spectators were thoroughly entertained for 90 minutes. The evening provided inspirational and motivational performances by the RMCC Pipes and Drum Band, including the Highland dancers, dressed in scarlets, last seen on the parade square 20 years ago; a remarkably enthusiastic and well-received presentation by the USAFA cadet Drum and Bugle Corps; the precision drill of the Vice-Regal Guard of Maritime Forces Pacific; the excellent musicianship and esprit de corps of the Naden Band of the RCN celebrating its 75th anniversary; the significantly important, loud and crowd pleasing firing of the 105 mm howitzers of the 5th (BC) Field Regiment of the RCA; the heart-felt, memorable and obviously proud ex cadet contingent representing the 55 year history of Royal Roads between 1940 and 1995; and the awesome, aerobatic artistry of the Snowbirds, celebrating their 45th anniversary, whose two fly pasts brought the crown to their feet at the start of the ceremony; and finally the special contribution by the young sea and air cadets who inspired confidence in the future.
The words from # 6999 Commander (retired) Randy Gynn, the President of the Vancouver Island Ex Cadet Club, Dr. Allan Cahoon, President of Royal Roads University and #15185 Rear-Admiral Bill Truelove, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, all reflected on the important and rich heritage of Royal Roads, focussing on the special relationship between the ex cadets and former staff of Royal Roads and RRU over the past 20 years.
Thanks were given to RRU for hosting such a significant event and recognizing the inherent importance of the military period in the rich history of Royal Roads. Overall, this was a memorable Sunset Ceremony, a successful celebration of Royal Roads.
Article leading up to the event –
***
