World War Veterans Remembered

The armed and security service of The Gambia, the Gambia Legion and voluntary organisations yesterday Sunday 7th November 2009, convened a parade at the McCarthy Square in Banjul in commemoration of the Remembrance Day.

The event, which took the form of a match-past, seeks to reflect and to pay homage to all war veterans who participated in all wars throughout the world, especially in World I and II.

Commenting on the significance of the day, Lieutenant Omar B Bojang, the Public Relations Officer of GAF said "Second Sunday of every November each year, we gather to remember the scarifies of those who fought for peace; to reflect and take pride in the heroism of those who gallantly shed their blood and laid down their lives for justice to prevail and to salute all those brave men and women who stood up against tyranny for the freedom of the human race."

According to him, it dated far back in 11th November 1918 at 11: 00am, saying it was the exact moment when the guns felt silent in the Western Front during the First World War after more than four years of continued warfare.

He said the First World War had brought about the mobilisation of 70 million people and left between 9 and 13 million dead, perhaps as many as one third with no known graves.

On Remembrance Day, Lt. Bojang said they acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of all those who serve humanity and also their responsibility to work for the peace they fought to achieve.

According to Army PRO, Royal West African Frontier Force consisted of contingents from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.

He added that the regiments contributed in no small measure to the successful outcome of the 1939-1945 war.

GAF Spokesperson further narrated that by the end of 1942; Coast Defence Artillery had been installed and manned in all the principal ports in West Africa, while Banjul (Bathurst), Freetown (Sierra Leone), and Logos (Nigeria) become naval bases.

The occasion was graced by Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Masanneh Kinteh, Deputy CDS Yankuba Drammeh, and IGP Badjie. The Minister for Interior represented President Jammeh.

The parade proceeded at Fajara War Cemetery where dignitaries laid wreaths for the fallen heroes.