Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten's Day celebrations kicked off on Friday with the traditional church service which was held at the Philipsburg Methodist Church, while the laying of wreaths took place at the Bellevue Frontier. Protocol was disturbed somewhat at the wreath laying ceremony when the Prefet of the French side did not show up for the one day celebration. The first set of wreaths were laid by Governor Eugene Holiday and Senator Louis Constant Fleming, while the Chief of the Prefet's cabinet laid a single wreath, followed by another set of wreaths laid by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and President Frantz Gumbs.Dignitaries were transported to Front Street where they witnessed the parade of the uniform troops. The official ceremony and lunch was served at the Festival Village. Minister of Education and Culture Rhoda Arrindell lost her composure and could not find words to describe the outpour of support from the people who came out to celebrate St. Maarten's Day.
President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs and the President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell were among the four speakers on Friday.
Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams captivated the crowd when she showed up at Festival Village in her patriotic outfit. The Prime Minister called on every citizen and resident to do what they can for their country. She also called on everyone to show love for St. Maarten by wearing their colors when it comes to celebrating St. Maarten's Day.
Click here to see more photos of the St. Maarten Day Church Service and Wreath Laying.
Click here to see more photos of the St. Maarten Day Celebration.
