Bursting with patriotism, hundreds of citizens poured into the Queen’s Park Savannah this morning as the nation celebrated its 57th anniversary of Independence.
Coming from as far as Rio Claro and other areas throughout the country, the eager spectators to the annual military parade lined up outside the Savannah from as early as 5.30 am to secure their seats in the Grand Stand. Several uncovered stands set up for spectators to get a closer look at the parade were filled.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and his wife, Sharon, were clear crowd favourites and were showered with applause when they arrived around 8 am.
When President Paula-Mae Weekes arrived several minutes later, she was also greeted by loud cheers while there was only scattered applause for Chief Justice Ivor Archie and his wife, Denise Rodriguez-Archie, when they arrived.
The parade consisted of men and women from the TT Regiment, the TT Police Service, the Fire Services, the Prisons Service, the Air Guard, the Coast Guard, the Defence Force Reserves, the Special Reserve Police, the Cadet Force, the Traffic Wardens, the St John Ambulance Brigade, the Military Led Academic Training Programme, and the Municipal Police.
One attendee, who did not give his name, said he left Rio Claro at 4 am to get to the Savannah in time for the parade.
“But it was enjoyable. After seeing the display I feel safe and secure, my favourite part was the big machines, I like to see the big trucks,” he said.
Adding that he is a regular attendee, he said he felt proud to witness the ceremony every year.