Families and friends lined the streets to cheer on thousands of officers and sailors from HMAS Albatross and HMAS Creswell as they marched through Nowra at the Freedom of Entry parade.

Ex-navy stoker and Bomaderry resident Luke Brownjohn attended the march with his disability support worker Andy Muzzall, who served in the navy for 20 years.

For Mr Brownjohn, who served in the Persian Gulf with HMAS Brisbane, the march was a true joy to watch.

“I’ve loved the navy my whole life,” Mr Brownjohn said.

“I’d like to congratulate Nowra residents for turning out in numbers to watch the march.

“It brings back fantastic memories, it stirs your heart.”

Swords were drawn, bayonets fixed, bands played and flags were flying in the colourful tradition. 

The tradition dates back to when nobles would maintain independent companies of armed men who were rarely admitted to other cities. 

However, in special cases, often for mutual protection, armed men were allowed the special privilege of freedom of entry to the city.

Through its British heritage the Australian Defence Force has maintained the tradition of Freedom of Entry.

It is considered a privilege to be granted Freedom of Entry to a city.

The first Freedom of Entry to the Shoalhaven City was granted to HMAS Albatross and Creswell in 1979 following the dissolution of the Shoalhaven Shire Council and establishment of the City of Shoalhaven.

Freedom of Entry is a community event hosted by Shoalhaven City Council.