Military Parade for King's Birthday

Military Parade for King's Birthday [1]

Nuku'alofa, Tonga

Tuesday, August 2, 2011 - 01:00. Updated on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 - 09:54.

His Majesty King George Tupou V.

HM King George Tupou V's official birthday today, August 1, was celebrated with a public holiday and the King attended a military parade at Pangai Lahi.

The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia HE Ms Quentin Bryce inspected the military parade in honour of the king's birthday and the anniversary of his coronation on August 1.

The military parade was presented by the Tonga Defence Services soldiers and navy, enjoyed an hour of fine weather. The parade also featured a joint military band of the TDS, United States Marine Band and Australian Army Band.

The Governor General is visiting Tonga from July 31 to August 2 with her husband HE Mr Michael Bryce.

A Royal Birthday Luncheon was held in the afternoon on the seafront area at Pangai Lahi followed by traditional Tongan dancing performances.

The king who was born on May 4, 1948, decreed that his official birthday be changed to August 1 the date of his Coronation in 2008.

Left Princess Pilolevu Tuita and Crown Prince Tupouto'a Lavaka.

King George Tupou V arriving at Pangai Lahi.

The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce.

Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce was welcomed by Brigadier Tau'aika 'Uta'atu.

The Prime Minister Lord Tu'ivakano and Lady Robyn, Lord Vaea, Lord Fielakepa, Lord Ma'afu, Lord Dalgedy and Lady Mary.

The Minister of Education, Hon. Dr 'Ana Taufe'ulungaki, and the Minister of Tourism Hon. 'Isileli Pulu and his wife.

King George Tupou V [2]

Quentin Bryce [3]

Tonga Defence Services [4]

Royalty & Nobility [5]