The ZAMBIA Army , Zambia Air Force and Zambia National Service; who are jointly known as the Zambia Defence Force, today celebrated the annual Defence Forces Day with pomp and splandour.
The usually low-key event held every June 13 was this year put on proverbial steroids and ramped up to levels not seen before.
The grand parade, perhaps only seen in socialist countries like Russia during the Red Army Day, was graced by President Edgar Lungu in his favourite field combat uniform and inspected a Guard of Honor and received a 21 Gun Salute at the Freedom Statue in Lusaka.
And this time it was not just boots and goose step marching; newly-painted artillery pieces were on display.
Heavy weaponry such as Armoured Personnel Carriers, Ural 375 Trucks, PT-76 light amphibious tanks, T-59 Main Battle Tanks, D-30 122mm Howitzers and Anti Air Batteries and various other artillery pieces from David Kaunda Barracks also called ‘Mikango’ or the Commander’s Last Punch were on display.
For the first time, missle systems such as the infamous Katyusha Rockets or Stalins Piano also rolled into town to the wonder and awe of the civilian audience.
If the group displays were good, then the air acrobatics and displays by the Zambia Air Force were simply amazing.
The airmen did their best to inspire any child watching to wish to be a pilot as they zig-zagged and swished effortlessly in the Lusaka sky.
Not to be outdone, ZNS also displayed mega tractors and various agriculture equipment key in fighting the battle against empty stomachs.
And in giving his remarks, Army Commander Lt. Gen. Lt. William Sikazwe declared the Defence Forces ready to defend the territorial integrity of Zambia and committed to modernising of the Defence Forces.
Commander-in-Chief President Lungu also thanked the Defence Forces for remaining politically neutral and contributing to peace in the region and world through Peace Keeping Missions.
©Kalemba June 13, 2021