Under the soft evening glow of candlelight and the warm hum of familiar voices, the Guyanese community in Anguilla gathered at Creative Delights on Monday, 10th November 2025, for a touching observance of Remembrance Day 2025. Though officially marked the day before, the intimate ceremony, hosted by the Guyanese Association of Anguilla, was filled with reverence, reflection, and a profound sense of shared heritage.
The event, chaired by Ms. Shenilla Vyphuis, brought together members of the Guyanese diaspora and friends of Guyana in an atmosphere both solemn and unifying. Following a prayer by Elaine Wilson, a two minute moment of silence was observed for the fallen soldiers.
In a moment of collective pride, all Guyanese in attendance stood to recite their national pledge — a solemn vow affirming loyalty to their country, respect for its laws, love for fellow citizens, and a commitment to work for the nation’s happiness and prosperity.
Ms. Anthea Roach offered an insightful overview of the significance of Remembrance Day, noting that 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. She reminded attendees that the day honours those who served in both World Wars — “to commemorate military personnel who died in the line of duty, especially during the Cold War,” she explained.
Ms. Roach highlighted that Guyana continues to pay homage to its four surviving World War II veterans — Mr. Donald Grant, Mr. James Samuels, Mr. Victor Bush, and Mr. Franklyn Courtman — all aged 99. She spoke of the enduring symbolism of the red poppy, which represents both remembrance and resilience.
The mood deepened when Ms. Suriya Benn recited Laurence Binyon’s immortal poem “For the Fallen” – which honours the soldiers’ youth, bravery, and enduring legacy, reminding the living to remember them with gratitude and reverence for generations to come.
A historical presentation followed, as Mr. Shae Wills shared the story of the Cenotaph in Georgetown, Guyana — the nation’s principal war memorial. Erected in 1923 near Church and Main Streets, the marble monument stands 15 feet high, inscribed with the words ‘Devotion, Humanity, Fortitude, and Sacrifice.’ Wills reminded attendees that “it remains a most honoured memorial, a symbol of Guyana’s contribution to the cause of freedom.”
Perhaps the most heartfelt moment of the evening came from Mrs. Deoranie Bharrat, who offered a deeply personal reflection on the tradition of wearing the poppy. Her voice carried warmth and nostalgia as she recounted childhood memories of Remembrance Day in Guyana: “We didn’t have internet or television then, so we had to learn everything — from the meaning of the day to the theme of each national celebration. When Remembrance Day came around, you had no choice but to wear your poppy.”
Mrs. Bharrat’s storytelling moved seamlessly from the national to the personal. She fondly remembered her aunt, who made thousands of poppies each year, and her uncle, the late Mr. Frederick Albert Johnson — a World War II veteran who served in fourteen countries. “That is why this day is very special to me,” she said softly. “Uncle was a perfect gentleman, the nicest human being. Even when he was bedridden, he never complained. We still remember him — and all the others — today.”
In honour of her uncle and all those who served in the wars, attendees lit candles, placing them beside his photograph and a wreath of red poppy flowers. The gentle flicker of the flames seemed to echo the enduring spirit of remembrance.
The evening concluded with a soothing rendition of Christina Perri’s “A Thousand Years” performed on the recorder by Natania Connor, followed by a collective singing of the hymn “Abide With Me.” The room swelled with emotion — a blend of pride, gratitude, and quiet reflection.
Remembrance is not only about looking back, but also about teaching the next generation the value of sacrifice and unity. As Mrs. Bharrat said, “We need to remember. We need to teach our children about this. It’s something that brings us together.”
By Janissa Fleming
