Independence Day Celebration is commemorated on a particular date set aside to mark the birth of a nation from a particular point in that nation’s history. It is in that spirit that states all over the world devote special attention in displaying their symbol of sovereignty as a people. In the case of The Gambia, commemorations of this magnitude is annually observed on the 18th day of February each year since 1965 after gaining her independence from British rule. 
The celebrations for this year 2019 saw the Gambia Armed Forces in collaboration with the sister services display a superb military parade. This colorful parade was witnessed by scores of jubilant Gambians and non Gambians alike in celebrating the 54th Independence anniversary. The occasion was celebrated at the McCarthy Square in the capital city of Banjul.
The special day was graced by His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces Mr. Adama Barrow. Also in attendance were high profile dignitaries such as His Excellency the Vice President Hon. Ousainou NK Darboe, Cabinet Ministers, Service Chiefs and from across the Diplomatic and Consular Corps among others. 
The event was capped by a speech from His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces Mr. Adama Barrow to people in attendance including school children and voluntary organizations that came to march as part of events earmarked for the day. Special recognition medals and certificates were also awarded by His Excellency the President and Commander-In-Chief to members of the Gambia Armed Forces for their sacrifice during the 2016 political impasse that hit The Gambia following the December elections of that year.
