100 People Attend Special Regimental Service
Around 100 people today [May 26] attended a special service to mark 40 years of service by Bermuda Regiment officers to the Governors of Bermuda.
Governor George Fergusson gave the sermon, in which he thanked all those who had served as Aides-de-camp – the military right-hand men to the Governor – over the years.
Retired Major Alvin Daniels, the first Bermudian ADC, who took up the post in 1973, said: “It was a very moving and thankful service in remembrance of those who have served in the post.
“The Governor’s message was of thanksgiving for the Regiment ADCs, who have provided service over four decades and stressed how much it was appreciated.”
Maj. Daniels added: “He also noted that a number of former ADCs had continued to serve the country and that several of them had gone to command the Regiment.”
Maj. Daniels added that special mention was made of two ADCs who have since died, Captain Larry Brangman and Maj. Chris Wheddon, both of whom had family members at the service.
Minister for National Security Michael Dunkley also attended the service, representing the Government.
Maj. Daniels, who was appointed to succeed Welsh Guards officer Captain Hugh Sayers, who was assassinated along with Governor Sir Richard Sharples in the grounds of Government House in 1973, said there were around 18 former ADCs still alive, most of whom attended.
Four of the ten Governors since 1973 have also since died.
The service, incorporated into the Trinity Sunday celebrations, was held at St Peter’s Church – which recently gained the title of Their Majesties Chapell – this morning.
Maj. Daniels read the first lesson at the service, which was conducted by St Peter’s rector, Rev. David Rath, who is also the Regimental chaplain, with the rank of Major, while the second lesson was read by current ADC, Captain Clifford Powell.
After the service, the Governor laid a wreath on the grave of Sir Richard and while Maj. Daniels did the same at the grave of Capt. Sayers. The two are buried side by side in the graveyard of St Peter’s.
A floral arrangement in memory the ADCs and former Governors who have since died was displayed during the service and later donated to a local rest home.
Maj. Daniels, who retired in 1976, but returned to Regiment duty in 1981, and retired again in 1987, continues to serve as secretary to the Defence Board and to the Regiment’s Promotions Board.
He added that other commemorations will take place this year, including a dinner for former ADCs hosted by Governor George Fergusson at Government House in July.
Former ADCs will also that month take the salute at a Beating Retreat ceremony in Hamilton.
And the planting of four cedar trees to mark each decade of Regiment service at Government House will take place in September, followed by a picnic in the grounds for ex-ADCs and their families.
Former ADCs will also make presentations to two Bermuda charities in July as part of the celebrations.
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