President Irfaan Ali on Sunday recalled the sacrifices of Guyanese who died during World Wars 1 and 2, and said Guyanese must be inspired by their fight for peace and freedom.

Delivering brief remarks on Remembrance Day at the National Cenotaph, the President said Guyana recalls with gratitude those who have made similar personal sacrifices in the continuing struggle for human dignity, social justice and freedom from all forms of oppression. 

“Their example strengthens our resolve to maintain our efforts for a world at peace with justice and prosperity for all [people. On this solemn occasion, we the citizens of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana rededicate ourselves in the search for peace everywhere and renew our commitment to the development and well-being of our beloved country,’ the President said.

The ceremony commenced with a military parade followed by the Presidential Salute, two minutes of silence, the sounding of the reveille, prayers and the laying of wreaths by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and the members of the armed forces.

Following the wreath laying ceremony, at the Guyana Veterans Legion Hall, British High Commissioner, Jane Miller said the fallen heroes and survivors must be remembered for their courage.

“Today we just don’t remember them but we Honor them for their courage, for their humanity, we honor those who left their homes and loved ones behind and pay tribute to the many that did not return whose names are now etched on monuments, held in memory and cherished in our hearts,” the British High Commissioner noted.

Also delivering remarks was Prime Minister Mark Phillips who said the country today should be inspired by the men who put service first before themselves. 

“Our veterans teach us the meaning of commitment to a cause, to a country and to one another. Each of them answered the call to service, they put the safety and well-being of their country above personal comfort demonstrating a level of passion that transcends individual interests. This Commitment is a reminder to all of us, that citizenship involves active participation in shaping a peaceful, just and prosperous society,” the Prime Minister noted,

Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour those who died in the wars.

British Guianese soldiers served and fought in Egypt, France, Belgium, and East Africa. Of the hundreds of war heroes who returned, seven veterans remain. 

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