2 PIR National Day celebrations DPR/TV/1444

Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, The Pacific Islands Regiment, joined with their countrymen this month (Sep 13) in celebrating the second National Day of Papua-New Guinea. The battalion paraded at Moem Barracks, near Wewak. A demonstration of Army equipment and techniques followed the formal parade. It was the first open day since the barracks were built and an estimated eight-thousand people swarmed in by bus, truck, Army transport and on foot. A mine detector was one of the star attractions, particularly for those who were able to try it out. It was a day of mixed success for competitors in athletics events, which were held on the Army oval. Here comes a winner, now. Something new has attracted the attention of the girls in the crowd - the most spectacular demonstration of the day. While the RAAF helicopter hovered over the arena, it showed how soldiers can be hoisted out of almost any location, in breathtaking fashion. For the soldiers, the day ended as it began, with traditional parades and ceremonials. The Pipes and Drums of the battalion Beat Retreat, for their visitors and VIP guests who lined the parade ground and surrounding buildings to watch the spectacle. And over all the celebrations, on this second National Day, waved the flag of Papua-New Guinea, flown officially throughout the country for the first time.