Hundreds gathered at the Cenotaph yesterday morning to pay tribute to Bermuda's war dead and surviving veterans at the annual Remembrance Day ceremony.

The solemn ceremony began with the arrival of Governor John Vereker at 10.53 a.m.

Already on hand were Premier Jennifer Smith and a number of other politicians from both Government and Opposition, as well as chiefs of Police, Fire Services and Regiment.

But the warm weather took a toll on some of the young cadets who made up part of ceremony.

A number of cadets participating were forced to the ground by the direct sunlight and a few even had to be helped away from their formations.

Bermuda's veterans stood tall and proud however.

As they marched to the Cenotaph behind the Regiment band, they drew applause from the crowds gathered along the Front Street parade route.

While many in the crowd have no personal memories of World War I or II, very few were even born at the time, many families made a point of attending the ceremony honouring "the brave and the true who died".

After the Governor inspected the veterans, taking the time to speak to each personally, two minutes of silence were observed.

Wreaths were the laid at the base of the Cenotaph - which was erected more than 80 years ago to honour the fallen of World War I - with the Governor placing the first memorial.

He was followed by Premier Jennifer Smith, who looked elegant in a simple black suit adorned only with a red poppy and a black hat.

Wreathes were then laid by the Mayor of Hamilton, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Grant Gibbons, the President of the War Veterans, the Chairman of the Defence Board, Regiment Commander Lt. Col. Eddie Lamb, Police Commissioner Jonathan Smith and Chief Fire Officer Vincent Hollinsid.

'The Last Post' was played by the Regiment band before a number of prayers were offered.

"We meet to pay tribute to all those who gave their lives in the cause of freedom in two World Wars, especially those who went forth from this land of ours and are here commemorated," the crowd heard.

Prayers were also offered to the leaders of all nations to pursue peace.

The ceremony closed with 'Reveille' and the Governor was led away in his car with a caravan of Police escorts on cycles in their dress whites.