By Adama Makasuba
The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) held a poignant Remembrance Day ceremony at McCarthy Square in Banjul on Sunday, November 10, 2024, to honor the sacrifices of soldiers who have served the nation. Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow presided over the event, representing President Adama Barrow, the GAF commander-in-chief.
This ceremony, dedicated to military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, featured a Guard of Honour and a parade by troops from all three branches of the Gambia Armed Forces—the Gambia National Army, the Gambia Navy, and the Republican National Guard. Dressed in full ceremonial attire, the personnel marched past the cenotaph, paying their respects to their fallen comrades.
The event was made more poignant by the participation of the Gambia Legion, the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides Association, and other civic groups, who added to the day’s significance. A highlight of the proceedings was a display of military precision by the GAF Band and Drums, who performed the ceremonial mounting and dismounting of the traditional pile of drums, underscoring the disciplined professionalism of the GAF.
Religious leaders also participated in the ceremony, offering prayers for the departed. Wreaths were laid at the cenotaph to commemorate those who sacrificed for the nation. The solemn atmosphere was enhanced by stirring military tunes and patriotic songs performed by the GAF and Police Bands, which echoed the deep respect for the fallen.
Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11, honors military personnel who have died in wars and conflicts, particularly those who served in World War I and II. While the global observance marks the signing of the Armistice in 1918 that ended World War I, The Gambia commemorates the day on the second Sunday of November, providing an opportunity for reflection on the sacrifices of its military.
In addition to those who died in past conflicts, the day also honors Gambian soldiers who have served in peacekeeping missions worldwide. GAF personnel have been deployed in various conflict zones, including Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Angola, East Timor, and Eritrea, demonstrating The Gambia’s long-standing commitment to global peace and security.
The historical significance of November 11 goes beyond national borders. The 1918 Armistice marked the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, effectively ending World War I after four years of brutal conflict. The guns fell silent at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, marking a turning point in global history. Since then, Remembrance Day has served to honor those who have fallen and reflect on the horrors of war and the importance of peace.
In The Gambia, the day is an opportunity for the public, especially younger generations, to learn about the country’s military history and the impact of war. It encourages gratitude, respect, and remembrance while underscoring the importance of conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
Several senior government and military officials attended the 2024 Remembrance Day ceremony, including Minister of Defence Brigadier General (RTD) Sering Modou Njie, Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Mamat OA Cham, National Security Advisor, and senior officers from the GAF. Other dignitaries included Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. Momodou Sowe, members of the diplomatic community, and a broad cross-section of the public.
