The Chairman of Dahomey's three-man Presidential Council, President Justin Ahomadegbe, was accompanied by Presidents Hubert Maga and Sourou Migan Apithy, at the military parade held in administrative capital of Portonovo on August 1st, to celebrate the nation's twelfth anniversary on Independence from France.

After lighting a symbolic flame to start the celebrations, President Ahomadegbe presented decorations to military and civilian personalities for outstanding contributions to the nation. Then, along with the members of the Government and the Diplomatic Corps, he reviewed the three-hour military parade.

Dahomey's army has a strength of 2,100, the National Gendarmerie has 1,200, and the Air Force 150 men. Citizens of both sexes between the ages of 18 and 51 are liable to be called up for military service. Equipment, arms and technical assistance are provided by France.