The Tribune

A SERVICE of thanksgiving was held at St Agnes Anglican Parish on Friday for members of the British Legion-Bahamas Branch to honour those men and women who fought in the Second World War.

The service was just part of a series of events across the weekend honouring veterans.

During the Second World War, Bahamians served in the British, American and Canadian Air Forces.

The Thanksgiving Service was a prelude to the annual Remembrance Day Service at Christ Church Cathedral yesterday.

The Remembrance Day Thanksgiving Service was organised by the British Legion Bahamas Branch, which was formed by World War II ex-servicemen after 1945 in order to preserve their experiences and legacies for future Bahamian generations.

Chairman of the British Legion Bahamas Branch Bishop Cephas Ferguson welcomed law enforcement officers present.

Senator Keith Bell, Minister of State for National Security, addressed the service, saying: “This service, which is held each year by the members of the British Legion-Bahamas Branch pays particular tribute to our country’s heroes who served during the tragic Second World War.

“We know that each year, less of our veterans are able to participate in this service physically, but it is heartening to know that in memory and spirit, they will always be present.”

He added: “These heroes forsook family to enlist in the fight to preserve peace in the world and the freedoms that we so easily take for granted in our democratic and free Christian nation.”

According to Mr Bell, the observance of Remembrance Day should demonstrate to law enforcement officers and young people the importance of service above self.

He also urged the veterans and others to ensure that every student is informed of the role played by those who fought in the war.

Following the church service, a military flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Veterans’ Depot for Military, where the National Flag, the British Legion Flag, the Canadian Flag and the Union Jack were raised.