The Gun Salute comes following the death of Prince Philip, age 99, on Friday, April 9, 2021, where the VI, UK and other British Overseas Territories (OTs) have embarked on a period of national mourning.
The ceremony staged today at the Queen Elizabeth II Park, was also attended by Premier Andrew A. Fahie (R1), Governor John J. Ranking CMG and other House of Assembly (HoA) Legislators.
In the VI, the territory will fly flags at half-mast outside of its buildings until after the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral, details for which will be confirmed in due course according to a statement from the Governor.
The Governor’s office also noted that a condolence book will also be opened on Monday at the Old Government House Museum and this will be opened to the public from 11:00 am on Monday until 3:00 pm, and then 10:00 am until 3:00 pm each working day until the day before the funeral.
Meanwhile, Premier Fahie ahead of the ceremony, extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the Royal family, the people of the United Kingdom and the entire Commonwealth, on the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
According to the Premier in a statement released last evening, April 9, 2020, “As a community with deep faith in God, we the people of the Virgin Islands pray for the eternal rest of Prince Philip’s soul, and that the Almighty will comfort his loved ones in this their time of grief.”