“Military parades enable soldiers to work as a team and to develop a sense of pride in themselves. The primary objective of a military parade is to build up and maintain in a soldier a high standard of discipline, turn-out, and bearing and pride in self and in the Force. In addition, the drill performed by soldiers on parade builds confidence, pride, alertness, attention to detail and esprit de corps. It is for this reason that military parades are regularly conducted.”
The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Twinpalm Station Commander, Col Gigi Handima said this during his quarterly parade at ZAF Twinpalm Station where he was the Reviewing Officer.
Col Handima said military personnel must remain alive to the fact that parades are the bedrock of discipline as they instill the power of command, endurance and self-discipline. He also said parades also form and shape the military way of life that is applicable to both on and off the parade square.
‘’Discipline is cardinal for each and every one of us if we are to contribute effectively towards realisation of the Air Force vision and goals. I therefore, urge you to maintain the highest levels of discipline at all times and avoid rumour mongering, absenteeism and reporting late for work, disobedience to particular orders and finally to follow the right channel of procedure to air grievances’’, he said.
The Station Commander reminded parade participants that Command is focused on ensuring combat capability through the acquisition of modern equipment and training of personnel in Air Force core capabilities as well as inculcating a culture of accountability and professionalism among personnel in the discharge of their duties.
He added that discipline was cardinal for service personnel if they are to contribute effectively towards realisation of the Air Force Vision and objectives.
‘’Let me use this opportunity to urge all personnel present not to be involved in partisan politics and remain loyal to serving the people of Zambia. Remain dedicated to duty and exhibit high levels of discipline on and off duty,’’ Col Handima said.
He also reminded personnel on the importance of financial integrity and called for sound financial investments in ventures that generate income and become asserts in the long run.