Press release
The 2018 Act of Remembrance organised by the British High Commission Banjul at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery had special significance as attendees commemorated the centenary of the Armistice that saw the end of World War I.
In the presence of Gambian veterans and their families, representatives from the Gambian Armed Forces, Gambian Police Force, faith leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, dignitaries and members of the public, the occasion provided an opportunity to recognise the important contribution, heroism and bravery of the West African forces during both World Wars.
During the ceremony, the assembled guests observed a two-minute silence and laid poppy wreaths to commemorate all those who, during the two World Wars and other conflicts since, sacrificed so much to secure and protect our freedom.
British High Commissioner, Sharon Wardle, paid a special and heartfelt tribute to the Gambian veterans and the memory of their comrades in arms who are sadly no longer with us. The High Commissioner noted that “across the world there are many events taking place to mark the Armistice Day centenary. The occasion has national and personal significance for so many of us – whether through the stories passed down across the generations, history lessons at school or even through the many dramatisations of the events that took place during both World Wars, we have all come to intimately learn about the horrors, sacrifices and heroism. And, whilst we remember, we should also celebrate our coming together in the spirit of reconciliation, unity and shared desire to protect and preserve peace for this generation and the generations to come”.
The ceremony was made possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission team and High Commission staff. The Fajara Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery is funded and cared for by the Commission (www.cwgc.org). It is open daily to the public as a place of quiet reflection and remembrance.
