One of the largest crowds in years gave a hero's welcome to Bermuda's war veterans in the Remembrance Day ceremonies.

The veterans stood tall and proud as they marched along Front Street to warm applause from the hundreds who had gathered to pay tribute to the veterans and Bermuda's war dead.

The solemn ceremony began with the arrival of the Deputy Governor Mark Capes. Already on hand were Premier Ewart Brown, Opposition Leader Wayne Furbert and a number of other politicians from both the Government and the Opposition.

While many in the crowd had no personal memories of World War One or Two, many families made a point of attending the ceremony honouring "the brave and the true who died".

Eight-year-old JacQui Swan told The Royal Gazette: "I think we should never forget that they died to protect us. We should always remember in our hearts that they fought to keep Bermuda safe."

Cyril Rance said that time may have taken its toll on the number of surviving veterans, but time would never diminish their contributions. "This is a great occasion. The veterans looked great. It is important that the people of Bermuda recognise those who sacrificed their lives so that we can live a decent life."

Charles Spanswick, who attends the parade every year, said it was important for the younger generation to remember the importance of World War Two in saving freedom.

"The veterans did a great service for the community and for the world and we should never forget that," he said.

A number of cadets who were participating in the ceremony fainted in the high humidity and a few even had to be helped away from their formations.

Deputy Governor Capes, Premier Brown, Opposition Leader Wayne Furbert, The Mayor of Hamilton, President of the War Veterans Association, Chairman of the Defence Board, and the Commanding Officer of the Bermuda Regiment laid wreaths at the base of the Cenotaph.