Honouring fallen heroes

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Sacrifices recognised: War veteran William David Dass, flanked by sons Kapt Christopher Ravindran Dass (left) and Kol (Dr) Alexander A. Dass, laying a wreath during the Remembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph at the Esplanade.

A HUSH fell over those present when buglers played the ‘Last Post’ during the Remembrance Day wreath laying ceremony at the cenotaph at the Esplanade.

The poem ‘The Ode’ by Laurence Binyon was read out by Penang Veterans Association (PVA) adviser Harold V. Speldewinde at the event held to honour those killed in wartime.

The more than 60 people present bowed their heads as they observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect to the military personnel and civilians who lost their lives in the various wars that took place after 1914.

Those present were mostly re-presentatives of High Commissio-ners of Commonwealth nations, members of PVA and armed forces personnel.

The representatives and armed forces personnel later followed Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to lay red and white wreaths at the base of the cenotaph.

Paying their respects: Blance (in wheelchair) and other PVA members taking part in the ceremony.

PVA member Blance Mcintyre, who came in a wheelchair, said she had been attending the Remembrance Day event since its inception in 2001.

“I want to pay my respects to those who died fighting gallantly to protect the country,” said the 90-year-old who is hard of hearing.

Earlier, PVA president Mej (B) Sivarajan Ramanathan said the cenotaph was a reminder of those who lost their lives during the wars.

“It reminds us of all the fallen heroes who defended our country. They came from near and far,” he said.

Not forgotten: Several wreaths placed at the cenotaph to honour those who died fighting for the country.

Lim, in his speech, said the people must never forget the ravages and loss of lives during World Wars I and II.

“War is dreadful and should be avoided wherever possible,” he said.

“Let us remember the strength and determination shown by our uniformed combat forces, police and local militia who defend human dignity.

“We must also remember our Commonwealth forces who came to our aid and stood by us during our time of need,” he added.