Navy charter parade impresses locals

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 36, 24 February 1987, Page 4

Navy charter parade impresses locals

So precise and smart was the marching and drill of the crew of HMNZS 'Irirangi' that it was hard to helieve they had practised for the Charter Parade only once — and that was about three weeks prior to the event. Their turn-out was impressive too: crisp white. freshly-pressed tropical uniforms bore testimony to the hours of individual 'dhobing' and ironing in preparation for this parade. These round-the-clock watchkeepers from the Navy's communication centre in Waiouru don't use a commercial laundry service — their uniforms are their personal responsibility. Their effforts were rewarded by a brilliantly fine, sunny day which provided a great setting for this ceremonial granting of the Charter. The 20-piece Royal New Zealand Navy Band from HMNZS Philomel was also impressive, not only in the playing of their instruments but in their drill discipline. It made at least one 'oldtimer' and ex-navy man proud to have been associated with that branch of the service. Even the bandmaster (the director of music who led the parade at the head of the band) was impressed. In fact, after the parade, he mentioned that after spending 30 years with the Royal Marine Band before taking up his present appointment a little over a year ago, he was still having to get used to the crispness and discipline of New Zealand's Navy Band!