The Spring Tribute
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The Spring Tribute (Alexandrian: L'Hommage du Printemps; Martino: El Tributo de la Primavera; Wechua: Pawqar Mit'a Yupaychay) is the annual military ceremony held on National Unity Day (12.III) at Federation Park in Cárdenas. The ceremony features members of the Federal Royal Guards and the Federal Forces of Nouvelle Alexandrie performing precision drills and presenting the ceremonial colors of units that remained loyal during the Spring Crisis of 1739. The name reflects both the timing of the original crisis and the perpetual renewal of the military's commitment to democratic values and constitutional order.
Ceremony
The ceremony begins at 10:00 when the King, accompanied by the Queen Adelaide and senior members of the Royal Family, departs the Palace of Carranza in the 1708 State Landau Coach, escorted by a squadron of the Mounted Royal Guards. The royal procession travels along Proclamation of Punta Santiago Avenue to Federation Park, where 1,200 soldiers, 400 musicians, and 200 horses participate in the ceremony.
Upon arrival, the King of Nouvelle Alexandrie, as Commander-in-Chief, inspects the assembled troops on horseback, accompanied by the Marshal General of the Federal Forces and the Colonel Commandant of the Federal Royal Guards. During the inspection, the massed bands perform traditional military music including the "Alexandrian March" and ceremonial Wechua war drums.
The highlight of the ceremony is the sequential presentation of the colors of loyal units from the Spring Crisis of 1739:
- The II (Federal Capital District) Combined Arms Corps Color
- The Federal Royal Guards Regimental Color
- The 807th General Support Regiment Color
- The 808th Reconnaissance Regiment Color
- The 809th Vanguard Regiment Color
- Colors of other loyal units
Massed Bands
March Past
Following the presentation of colors, units march past the King in slow and quick time. The ceremony concludes with a 21-gun salute and a flyover by the Federal Air Force.
Historical Significance
The Spring Tribute was established in 1739 AN to commemorate the loyalty of military units during the Spring Crisis of 1739 and has evolved into a symbol of military dedication to constitutional principles. The inclusion of both Alexandrian-style military bands and traditional Wechua musicians reflects the Federation's multicultural heritage. The ceremony's name carries dual significance, referencing both the season when democracy was defended and the military's ongoing tribute to constitutional values.
Public Participation
Over 100,000 spectators typically attend the ceremony at Federation Park, with millions more watching the live broadcast. Public viewing areas are established along Proclamation of Punta Santiago Avenue for the royal procession. The event has become a cornerstone of National Unity Day celebrations, symbolizing the partnership between the armed forces and civilian population in defending democratic institutions.
