Crowd cheers for Rowleys

The military parade which has traditionally been the centrepiece of Independence day celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago, did not fail in it’s ability to draw a crowd this year, as throngs of spectators packed the stands to commemorate this country’s 54th Independence Anniversary with some gathering from as early as 6 am yesterday morning. The parade, which showcased the musical talent, precision skills and vehicles of the various branches of the protective services, captured the attention of onlookers both young and old alike.

Minister of National Security, Edmund Dillon and his wife Ava, were the first dignitaries to arrive at around 7.45 am yesterday. Dillon, who together with Chief Justice Ivor Archie and wife Denise Rodriguez-Archie greeted Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and Mrs Rowley, who were met with an uproarious applause from spectators as they made their way to the stands.

Dr Rowley who along with his wife arrived in the Prime Minister’s official vehicle, PM 1. Accompanied by traditional military song, ‘On the Square’, members of the armed and unarmed services were met with a roar of applause from onlookers as they entered the Grand Stand, while officers of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF), kept a close watch on proceedings. President and Commander in Chief of the armed forces, Anthony Carmona carried out his inspection of the various files of the protective services, flanked by members of the Police service mounted branch.

During the playing of the national anthem, which marked the beginning of yesterday’s activities, the Grand Stand came abuzz as spectators joined in and sang together in unison, providing an atmosphere befitting of the spectacle.

Newsday understands the number of vehicles showcased during this year’s parade was limited to only ten vehicles per division, however this did not fail to draw cheers and applause from the audience, as the vehicles of the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, stole the show yet again.