Scores of government officials and dignitaries gathered at Government House on Friday 9 Sept., for a 96-gun salute to honour Queen Elizabeth II.
The near hour-long ceremony began with 16 minutes of silence, followed by the 96-gun salute. Afterward, among those laying wreaths were Governor Martyn Roper, Premier Wayne Panton, Deputy Premier Chris Saunders, Speaker of the House McKeeva Bush and Chief Justice Anthony Smellie. Attendees were then given the chance to sign a condolence book.
Although the media was invited to document the proceedings, the ceremony was closed to the public. However, that did not stop dozens of curious onlookers, well-wishers and grieving supporters from gathering at both gates to pay their respects – some of whom also left flowers.
Below is a gallery of images from today’s ceremony.
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It was disappointing to me that QEII’s Cayman Islands citizens who love, respect & miss here too were not invited to participate in this event. Perhaps it was because there was not time to plan for the crowd that would attend. I hope that the Governor and elected officials are planning to allow for public participation in upcoming events as we approach her funeral.
Anne Evans
[ Subscriber’s Spouse]