It’s an event that hasn’t happened since 2023. This year, on April 24th and 25th, between 9 am and 6 pm, in the Place de la République and in the gardens of the Department, many members of the armed forces will come together to show their commitment and organize various demonstrations.
Close to 100 exhibitors are expected to participate. “There is a protocol time planned for Friday starting at 11 am, with a somewhat official inauguration that will kick off in the department’s gardens, continuing on to the Place de la République,” said Chief Warrant Officer Alain Duvaquier, head of the Information and Recruitment Center for the Armed Forces (Cirfa) in Dijon.
In total, there will be 100 exhibitors present, including members from all four branches of the armed forces, as well as the Foreign Legion, the Second Regiment of Dragons, and firefighters from Sdis 21. Three information centers or recruitment offices will be set up on site.
“Young people will come to present the youth program, which includes everything offered to young people, such as youth squadrons, marine military preparations, and the aeronautical initiation certificate,” added Chief Warrant Officer Alain Duvaquier. The event is designed to meet the people of Dijon and highlight the Cirfa and the units that have been called upon to support them.
For the various demonstrations and activities planned, a number of vehicles and equipment will be brought in, including a 20-ton logistic support vehicle for the army, various vehicles, two flight simulators, a Gendarmerie Centaur (a type of intervention vehicle), and an Alpine. The highlight will likely be an Alpha Jet aircraft that will be on display in the Place de la République. “This will be the biggest challenge. It will arrive in parts and be assembled on site before opening to the public. A significant security arrangement will be in place before the plane leaves early Sunday morning.”
