The Royal Bahamas Defence Force recently held its 42nd Flamingo Ceremony in memory of the four (4) fallen Marines who through bravery paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.The event which took place on 10th May at HMBS Coral Harbour Base is held annually and includes a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the event, pay respects, and show gratitude to not just those who tragically lost their lives in the events, but also to those that survived. The Acting Prime Minister, The Honourable Chester Cooper gave remarks and had the opportunity to place a wreath at the HMBS Flamingo Memorial Park Monument. In his remarks, he reminded service members of the significant role they play in protecting our nation and gave assurance that the current government will be deliberate in their efforts of ensuring that the families of those fallen and the survivors of the event will receive proper recognition in the near future. Family members and friends of the four marines lost in action, along with survivors and veterans also attended the ceremony and were able to place wreaths near the plaques of their loved ones and comrades.Dignitaries in attendance included the Acting Prime Minster, The Honourable Chester Cooper, who also serves as the Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; Minister of National Security, the Honourable Wayne Munroe; the Minister of State for the Public Service, the Honourable Pia Glover-Rolle; Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Michael Pintard; Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King; Chargé d’affaires to The Bahamas, Ms. Usha E Pitts; the Bahamas Resident Ambassador to Haiti and the Non-Resident Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Retired Captain Whitfield Neely; Retired Commodore Davy Rolle, Retired Commodore Clifford Scavella; Retired Commodore Tellis Bethel and the local Heads of Law Enforcement agencies. May the memories of those who sacrificed for our country never fade.(RBDF Photos by Able Seaman Michael E. Turner II)