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MEXICO CITY, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Mexico's traditional Independence Day military parade thrilled onlookers in Mexico City as the country celebrated the 206th anniversary of its independence.
Over 23,400 soldiers, sailors and police officers marched through the central Zocalo square, saluting President Enrique Pena Nieto and greeting the population.
The parade began with a 21-cannon salute before 15 paratroopers jumped from three planes at an altitude of 2,700 meters, deploying parachutes painted like the Mexican flag.
The troops marched past a gigantic five-meter flag, including special forces troops, their faces camouflaged, including elements who have been involved in fighting organized crime.
They were followed by brigades of infantry, of land troops of the Mexican Air Force, and of the Motorized Cavalry, showing some of the armored vehicles to be used in combat.
In the air, 149 planes and helicopters of the Airforce and Army left from a base north of the city to follow the troops, showing off formations such as the flying V or a diamond.
Accompanying the troops, over 4,000 people lining the Zocalo square gave life to colored mosaics representing key moments of the War of Independence and military insignia.
From the main balcony of the national palace, President Pena Nieto oversaw the parade, accompanied by the First Lady, Angelica Rivera, the Minister of National Defense, Salvador Cienfuegos, and the Minister of the Navy, Vidal Francisco Soberon.
Several sixth-grade students from across the country were also invited to join him, dressed in their school uniforms.
"It was an unforgettable experience to be on the presidential balcony, super beautiful. I felt proud of my country," said one of the children when interviewed by Mexican television.
Towards the end of the parade, the crowds cheered loudly for the military units which provided a rapid response to natural disasters across Mexico.
This program celebrated 50 years of life in 2016, after beginning in 1966 when a river overflowed in eastern Mexico. Displays on the back of trucks showcased the actions that these soldiers took, including during floods, landslides and earthquakes.
The army also showed the latest accomplishments of Mexico's national military industry, with trucks highlighting important chapters such as the manufacturing process of the Mexican FX assault rifle.
After marching past the president, the parade followed a seven-kilometer route through the city, including along the emblematic Reforma Avenue, which was lined by families who had been waiting for up to three hours.
The parade was captured by a sea of cellphones, while others waved and cheered the uniformed ranks, including one contingent of military athletes, who participated in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
