President Irfaan Ali has called for global peace in honour of the fallen heroes of World War 1 and 11. During the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph Monument yesterday morning, he reaffirmed the demand for a ceasefire, making reference to the Israel-Hamas war.
“The least the world can do in honour of those who sacrificed ultimately in the two world wars is to return every corner of this world to a position of peace… to return hostages held against their will, and to cease fire on every land in which men, women, and children especially are killed and awakened by the sound of bombs,” he said.
Recognising the sacrifice of the valiant men and women who gave their lives in the two wars, President Ali said Guyanese have a responsibility to follow their example of resolve and perseverance in fostering a world of peace. Government representatives, Guyana Legion veterans, members of the diplomatic corps, and the joint services gathered to honour those who fought and lost their lives in World Wars I and II.
The ceremony began with a military parade, followed by a presidential salute, the sounding of the last post, and two minutes of silence to remember the fallen soldiers and auxiliaries of the two wars.
President Ali laid the first wreath, followed by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir, Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force Brigadier Omar Khan, President of the Guyana Veterans Legion Lt Col (Ret’d) George Gomes, and other officials.
Remembrance Day, also known as Poppy Day, is observed in memory of those who served and lost their lives in France, Egypt, Belgium, East Africa, and other countries during World Wars I (1914–1918) and II (1939–1345),. Guyana observes Remembrance Day on the second Sunday in November, whereas other Commonwealth nations mark it on November 11.
