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GDF honours veterans at annual ceremony
Kaieteur News – The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) last week Thursday paid tribute to the nation’s veterans at its Annual Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Veterans Monument, Base Camp Ayanganna.
One of the army veterans makes his way to the ceremony
A section of the veterans at the wreath laying ceremony
Another section of veterans
Prime Minister, Mark Phillips and heads of the joint services at the ceremony
The solemn event brought together national leaders, serving members, and veterans for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude. The ceremony began with the Last Post, followed by a moment of silence and the Reveille. Wreaths were laid by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, MSS, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, and veterans including Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) George Gomes, Sergeant (Ret’d) Claudette Thorne, and 99-year-old Lance Corporal (Ret’d) James Samuels. Samuels, one of only four surviving World War II veterans in Guyana, captivated attendees when he rose from his wheelchair to lay his wreath, honouring comrades from eight decades ago.
According to GDF press release, speaking on behalf of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister, Phillips reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of veterans. He emphasised that as Guyana grows economically, veterans will continue to benefit from improvements in housing, infrastructure, and health services. “The courage and sacrifice of our servicemen and women are interwoven into the very fabric of our nation’s integrity. Their valour ensures that Guyana stands strong, united, and indivisible,” he affirmed.
President of the Guyana Veterans Legion, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) George Gomes, highlighted key initiatives benefiting veterans, including renovations at the Legion Headquarters, the upkeep of the Veterans Rest Home, and the monthly medical outreach carried out by the GDF Medical Corps. He also stressed the importance of nutrition and healthy lifestyles to prevent non-communicable diseases among veterans.
Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, paid tribute to the veterans’ contribution to the Force. “On your shoulders rests the early survival and stability of this Force. Without your sacrifice, discipline, and resilience, the GDF could not have grown into the institution it is today,” he said, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to remaining connected with and supporting its veterans. Following the formal proceedings, veterans were treated to a luncheon, where they shared memories, offered advice, and interacted with serving members of the Force. The event concluded in the spirit of camaraderie, reflection, and national pride.
Through this event, the GDF once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to honouring those who defended Guyana’s freedom and territorial integrity, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire the men and women serving today.
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