Amid fluttering flags and steady rainfall, leaders, veterans, and members of the Disciplined Services gathered this morning at the War Memorial Monument to honour the men and women who gave their lives in the pursuit of peace, freedom, and humanity.
Despite the weather, the National Remembrance Day Commemorative Ceremony 2025 was observed with solemn dignity, as Guyana paid tribute to those whose courage and sacrifice secured the liberties the nation enjoys today.
Those present at this morning’s ceremony stood undeterred beneath grey and cloudy skies, a quiet but powerful reminder that remembrance is a duty carried out in all conditions. Their presence reflected the nation’s enduring respect for the fallen and its continued commitment to the ideals they defended.
His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and Prime Minister (ag.) Honourable Gail Teixeira, MP, led the official observance, accompanied by members of the Cabinet, the Diplomatic Corps, senior officers of the Disciplined Services, veterans of the Guyana Veterans Legion and members of the St John’s Ambulance Brigade.
Also present at the ceremony was World War 11 Veteran, Mr Donald Grant.
Led with precision by the Guyana Defence Force, the ceremony upheld the dignity and discipline that define this national tradition. The sounding of the Last Post marked the beginning of two minutes of silence, followed by the Reveille, a solemn tribute to the fallen and a symbol of hope and renewal.
In his message, President Ali paid tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of freedom and humanity. He also saluted the current members of the Disciplined Services who stand guard at Guyana’s borders, men and women who leave their homes and families to ensure the peaceful existence of our nation and the security of our people. “We are encouraged by their example,” the President stated, “to strengthen our resolve, preserve the peace within our borders, and keep that peace for generations to come.”
The President further extended a call to all leaders, at home and abroad, to combine their efforts in building a world free from the scourge of war and the disruptions of peace. He urged the global community to unite in defeating terror, oppression, injustice, and criminality, and to protect the next generation so they may grow in a world of honour and dignity. “We rededicate ourselves,” he said, “to the quest for peace, here in Guyana, and across the world.”
His Excellency laid the first wreath at the base of the Cenotaph, followed by the Prime Minister (ag.), members of the Government, the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of the Disciplined Services, and veterans’ organisations. Each wreath, placed amid the rain, served as a testament to the devotion and selfless sacrifice of those who served the nation.
The observance concluded with the singing of the National Anthem as ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Prison Service, and the Guyana Veterans Legion stood in solemn formation beneath the rain.
As the nation paused to reflect on the sacrifices of its sons and daughters, Remembrance Day 2025 stood as a timeless reminder that remembrance is both an act of gratitude and a pledge, to uphold the values of courage, duty, and peace, and to ensure that the price paid by the fallen forever strengthens our pursuit of a just and peaceful world.
