In a heartfelt display of reverence and unity, Guyana marked Remembrance Day with a solemn ceremony at the Cenotaph in Georgetown early Sunday morning.
The ceremony, which honoured the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace, freedom, and justice, was attended by national leaders, diplomats, military personnel, and citizens alike.
The event, which began with a minute of silence, was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by brave men and women who fought for the dignity of all people, the preservation of peace, and the pursuit of social justice.
Dr. Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, delivered an inspiring address during the ceremony.
“On this Sunday of remembrance, we meet again to recall with gratitude those who, through the years, have made personal sacrifices in the continuing struggle for human dignity, social justice, and freedom from all forms of oppression,” he stated.
“Their example strengthens our resolve to maintain our efforts at peace with justice and prosperity for all peoples.”
President Ali’s speech echoed a message of solidarity, urging all Guyanese to reflect on the significance of the day.
“In our quiet moments, we reflect and remember these gallant men and women in prayer,” he said, calling for a rededication to the ideals of peace and the development of the nation.
The President’s call was met with appreciation and applause as attendees stood in solidarity with his message.
Before the address, prayers were offered in the three main faiths of the nation: Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam.
Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chief of Defense Staff Brigadier Omar Khan. (Guyana Police Force photo)
The traditional laying of wreaths was another solemn highlight of the ceremony. The first wreath was laid by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, followed by Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chief of Defense Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, and President of the Guyana Legion Colonel (ret’d) George Golds. A number of ambassadors and high commissioners from foreign missions also participated in the wreath-laying, including Jane Caroline Miller, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom; Guo Haiyan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China among others.
As part of the morning’s proceedings, the “Last Post” was sounded, followed by a moment of silent reflection. The ceremony concluded with the hymn “God, Our Help in Ages Past,” sung by attendees in a collective expression of respect and remembrance for those who gave their lives for a better future.
The occasion was not just a commemoration of the past but a reaffirmation of Guyana’s commitment to peace and justice.
President Ali’s call for continued efforts in the pursuit of human dignity resonated strongly with the crowd.
“Today, we rededicate ourselves to the cause of peace, to the development and well-being of our beloved country,” he concluded. “Thank you, and God bless you all.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, participants stood in quiet reflection, remembering the lives lost in wars past and the sacrifices made to ensure a peaceful and just world for future generations.
The Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph serves as an annual reminder of the price of peace and the enduring spirit of unity and sacrifice.
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