Golden Arrowhead hoisted- as Guyana observes 41st Republic anniversary
Georgetown, GINA, February 23, 2011Guyana’s symbol of nationhood, the Golden Arrowhead, was this morning hoisted in the forecourt of Parliament Buildings in the presence of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bharrat Jagdeo and the military top brass to celebrate Guyana’s 41st Republic anniversary.
Flag Ensign Midshipman Rawl Williams, assisted by Lance Corporal Kevon Tappin raised the flag to the ceremonial 21-gun salute as members of the Cabinet, the Diplomatic Corps and the public observed the sombre tradition.
President Bharrat Jagdeo surrounded by the Military’s top brass taking the Presidential Salute in the forecourt of Parliament Buildings in honour of the Guyana’s 41st Republic Anniversary
Preceding the flag raising was the arrival of Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds, given the general salute, followed by the President’s arrival, the Presidential salute and the inspection of the Guard of Honour.
There were four guards on parade: Number One was commanded by Lieutenant Keith Watts of the Guyana Defence Force; Number Two by Sub-Lieutenant Shennel Europe, also of the GDF while the Number Three Guard was commanded by Deputy Superintendent Ingrid Wiltshire from the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Assistant Superintendent Patrick Todd also of the GPF commanded the Number Four Guard.
President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony and Heads of the various Military arms observing the flag being hoisted in honour of Guyana’s 41st Republic Anniversary
GDF Lieutenant Leroy Thomas was the State colour Ensign. Bearing the Force Colours was Lieutenant Orwain Sandy, with Warrant Officer Class 2 Rawl Rodney acting as the Colour Custodian. Staff Sergeant Sherlock Rigby and Sergeant Lloyd Woodroffe were the Colour escorts and the Parade Warrant officer, Force Sergeant-Major, Warrant Officer Class 1 Dwayne Thomas.
The Golden Arrowhead being hoisted in the forecourt of Parliament Buildings, as the Presidential party observes and the Military Top Brass salute
Pandit Jagmohan Persaud, Imam Shaik Zakir Khan and Pastor Diego Alphonso offered prayers on behalf of the Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities.
The GPF band and choir, directed by Assistant Superintendent Clive McCoy led those gathered in renditions of National Songs and the National Anthem, after which the parade marched on, bringing an end to the morning’s proceedings.
Later today President Jagdeo is expected to participate in Mashramani festivities.
