Traditionally, the open days of the 54th Artillery Regiment returned every two years to the Hyères calendar. The health crisis got the better of this habit and, by welcoming the public yesterday, the military reminded that the last edition dates back to 2019.
Suffice to say that, for many children (or curious people), it was the first opportunity to see what the thousand soldiers who are active within the very vast Vassoigne barracks can do.
“This year, in addition to a return after five years of absence, the open days also have the particularity of allowing us to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the regiment in Hyèresadds the spokesperson for the unit. It allows us to present what we do and our role to the people of Hyères, who don’t necessarily know us. “.
Since yesterday, and again today until 5 p.m., the barracks offers various stands presenting civil or military activities. Events also return regularly to demonstrate the regiment’s specialties and reveal some of the secrets of their equipment.
The open days are free, today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., entrance (and parking) avenue du XVe body, between the veterinary clinic and the Ferdinand-Buisson nursery school.
Specialized in “ground-air” combat, the 54e artillery regiment presents different equipment during these open days, representing the entire activity of the army. A rare opportunity to take a seat in an armored vehicle or a helicopter.
The army confides that this type of open-door operation – here as elsewhere – sometimes allows the emergence of vocations among the youngest… and therefore ultimately ensures the renewal of the workforce. Undoubtedly not really aware of this national defense issue, the children are in any case rushing to grab toys that should not be put into everyone’s hands.
During previous editions of the open days, the regiment announced that it received visits from an average of 10,000 people. A figure which could well be exceeded this year given the crowds recorded yesterday.
