National Day 2016: Luxembourg’s traditional military parade attracts thousands

Luxembourg's traditional military parade

Thousands of people turned out on Luxembourg’s National Day for the military parade. Under sunny skies, spectators were able to watch army displays on the ground, and in the air.

For the first time, two planes flew low over Avenue de le Liberté in the capital. A Hercules transport aircraft C130, piloted by a Luxembourger, and an AWACS surveillance aircraft E3A, flying under the Luxembourg flag performed a fly-by.

On the ground, after the various regiments reached their destination, Luxembourg’s army Chief of Staff Roman Mancinelli, CEO of the Luxembourg police, Philippe Schrantz and Defence Minister Etienne Schneider, inspected the troops.

After the national anthem was played, the ceremonial parade ended with the procession of the army regiments and police forces of various department. The guard of honour, a battalion of veterans, a vehicle procession all rolled by accompanied by military music.

But it was not all about the military as customs and excise administration, prison staff, emergency services, Red Cross and Luxembourg Air Rescue all participated.