A civilian and military march past was the major highlight of memorable celebrations marking this year's 40th edition of the National Day on Sunday. True to tradition, it was at 10 a.m that the Senior Divisional Officer for Fako, Bona Ebengue François, arrived at the Manga Williams ceremonial ground after the singing of the National Anthem, 30 medals were awarded to Cameroonians who excelled in diverse domains. Then followed the

military march past in which the Rapid Intervention Batallion (known by its French acronym BIR) carried the day as they attracted thunderous applause from the crowd.

The civilian march past was equally impressive. It kicked-off with the scouts, the Red Cross and the Cameroon Youth Council displaying their best in the marching exercise. Over 100 primary, secondary, and high schools followed suite in a marching process that defies qualifiers.

The pupils and students carried banners with messages pregnant with meaning. Three political parties, the CPDM, UNDP and the UPK equally answered present and added colour to the ceremony. Four bands ensured harmony at the hitch free march past.