ON THE lush grounds of the French Embassy, on Hilcrest Avenue, Kingston, French Ambassador, Dr. Albert Salon hosted the annual Bastille Day celebrations.
Earlier that evening the Ambassador presented Pierre Lamaire, president of the Alliance Francaise de la Jamaique, with the l'Ordre du Merite (Order of Merit) and the Legion d'Honneur (Legion of Honour) to Dr. Matthew Beaubrun.
The French Marines stood at arms, while guests gathered to witness the presentations.
Mr. Lemaire, who has been working in Jamaica since 1976, received the award for his years of service in the field of culture, as well as for other achievements.
Speaking with The Gleaner after the ceremony, Mr. Lemaire said he felt "very proud and very surprised" and that his work was something he enjoyed doing.
"It is good," he said, "to realise that people see what you have done and appreciate it."
He came here on a one-year contract in 1976 and decided to stay permanently. However, he gave his wife, Karlene, much of the credit for his achievements and thanked Barbara Gloudon and Alwyn Scott for their help.
Dr. Beaubrun, who had already been awarded the Order of Merit of France and the Award of Arts and Letters in France, said "the French are very serious about their awards," and said that he felt "very honoured."
After the presentations it was time to celebrate the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789 and July 14, 1790, when representatives of all provinces went to Paris to affirm the cry for liberty, equality and fraternity.
Beautiful ice sculptures were mounted in the centre of an oval table, with fruits cascading on one side and delicious hors d'oeuvres on the other. The fare included a variety of French cheeses and wines.
Ambassador Salon spoke of the special relationship which existed between Jamaica and France and suggested that in addition to the Fete de la Musique, held in France there could be a Ska-Reggae Day as well.
Among the guests were Archbishop Emeritus, Samuel Carter; John Junor; Edward Seaga; Dennis Francis; Burchell Whiteman and Monsignor Richard Albert.
