By Isaac Arkoh, GNA
Cape Coast, Nov. 11, GNA – A solemn wreath-laying ceremony and parade have been held at the Cenotaph of the Cape Coast Castle to honour Ghanaian veterans and fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars.
The annual Central Regional Remembrance Day commemoration brought together veterans, security personnel, traditional authorities and students in a moving tribute to those who served the nation and the world.
The ceremony, observed globally on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marked the end of the First World War and honoured all who died in the conflict.
Remembrance Day commemorates the Armistice of November 11, 1918, while the two-minute silence has been observed since 1919.
Fallen soldiers of the First and Second World Wars were remembered with a two-minute silence, followed by the tolling of a church bell and the blowing of sirens.
Ex-Warrant Officer Class One Kingsley Korsah, the Central Regional Chairman of the Veterans’ Administration of Ghana (VAG), paid tribute to Ghanaian soldiers who perished in the line of duty and read the “Binyon Verses.”
The Binyon Verses, particularly “For the Fallen” are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom. They are often read as at services and have become synonymous with the Remembrance Sunday.
The Ghana National Fire service (GNFS) Brass Band gave an exciting display of their skills as the Ghana Police Service and Ghana Prisons Service added colour and beauty to the ceremony.
Members of the VAG were joined by a contingent of five officers and 300 men from the Ghana Armed Forces, Police Service, Prisons Service, Fire Service, as well as cadets from St. Augustine’s College and Adisadel College, who mounted a parade in honour of the fallen heroes.
Mr Ekow Payin Okyere Eduamoah, the Central Regional Minister, laid a wreath on behalf of the Government and People of Ghana.
Deputy Commissioner of Police George Bosman Ohene Boadi, the Central Regional Police Commander, laid a wreath on behalf of security personnel, while Osabarimba Kwasi Atta II, the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, laid one on behalf of traditional leaders.
In a brief interview with the Ghana News Agency, the Regional Minister urged Ghanaians to nurture national unity and understand its benefits.
“As we honour those who gave their lives for our nation, let us ask ourselves: What are we doing today to make their sacrifice count?” he said.
He noted that patriotism was measured not only by sacrifice in war, but also by responsibility in peace, through diligent work, care for the environment and respect for one another.
“Let us promise to do our best and leave a legacy that inspires future generations to say, ‘They, too, served their nation well,’” the Minister added.
The Central Regional Chairman of the VAG, in an address, called for national unity, love and peace, saying these values reflected the wider purpose of Remembrance Day.
He advised retired servicemen to prioritise their health and remain united to secure continued government support for their welfare.
Expressing hope amid global tensions, he said he trusted God to prevent another world war.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Isaac Arkoh
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]