Cayman Brac remembers

By Anthony Khan

Residents and well-wishers gathered in their numbers at the grounds of the Administration Building to participate in this year’s, “REMEMBRANCE SERVICE.” It’s an event that has become dear to all on the island.

The event got underway promptly with the parade of uniformed organizations followed by the District Commissioner and platform party taking their positions. Punctually at 10:45 a.m. Deputy Commissioner Mr. Mark Tibbetts led the audience in the singing of the National Anthem.

Guard of Honour inspection was led by Deputy Premier Hon. Mr. Moses Kirkconnell and Minister for Education, Hon. Mrs. Juliana O’Connor Connolly.

Pastor Joel Scott Senior, Senior Pastor of the Crossroad United Baptist Church then welcomed the large gathering which included quite a number of young citizens.

In his address, the District Commissioner Mr. Ernie Scott began by welcoming all present. He traced the development of this service for the audience indicating that it was, “on the 11th hour, on the 11th day of the 11th month,” the ceasefire occurred. The promise was to ensure no further bloodshed but of course as we know there remains continuous warring to this day. “Many of those who sacrificed and died probably never even knew us,” he continued. “It is in the Bible that we find these greatest of words ever written, greater love hath no man than one should lay down his life for his friends,” emphasized the Commissioner. “Their sterling love for peace amongst all nations led to sacrifice their lives so that we in the Cayman Islands, can enjoy much cherished freedoms. May we always be mindful of these gallant fighters and the cause for which they fought so bravely.”

Following his address and the two-minute silence punctuated by rifle shots, a musical item, “The Last Post. Mrs. Danielle Ebanks then gave a moving rendition of the song, “The Anchor Holds.” The act of worship was done by Minister Courtney Morrison of the All Nations United Pentecostal Church. He directed the audience to reading of Psalm 24 with special reference to verse 2, “HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS.” The combined Primary Schools Choir under the direction and accompaniment of Music Instructor Ms. Williams gave a beautiful rendition of, “The Prayer.”

Retired Major, George Walton, from Temple Beth Shalom gave a moving rendition of a poem titled, “Why Do You Still March Old Man?” Although the author is anonymous, the Major brought out the message most passionately. He choked on numerous occasions, shedding tears along the way as he made his recitation.

The names of the fallen on the Cenotaph were then read and this was followed by the laying of the wreaths, which had the participation of school children.

Pastor Levonne Ryan, Church of God Holiness, Watering Place, led in prayer. She expressed gratitude to God for all His benefits and blessings towards the islands. She thanked the fallen for their sacrifices but made a special call, “Lord we have drifted too far from you. We have forgotten from whence we have come. Lord, help us to get back to that first love and serve Jesus in Spirit and in truth.” She then led the congregation in reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

Pastor Levonne’s contribution was followed by the Reveille an instrumental piece. Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Mark Tibbetts then led in the singing of the National Song and, thereafter, brought the service to its conclusion.