eveningstandard--2019-01-23--Anna Wintour on Meghan Markleaposs wedding dress The Vogue editor explains why it worked

Anna Wintour on Meghan Markle's wedding dress: The Vogue editor explains why it worked

With decades of experience at the top of the fashion food chain, Vogue editor Anna Wintour's seal of approval carries a lot of weight. Recently she revisited her British roots to weigh in on the most talked-about dress of 2018: Meghan Markle’s Givenchy wedding gown.  In a Vogue video called Anna Wintour Answers Questions From Total Strangers, Wintour was asked about the Duchess of Sussex. “I think [Meghan’s] choice was brilliant. It was sophisticated, it was chic, it was grown up. It was an English designer - albeit one that was working for a French house - which in a way was a message to the world. ‘Yes, I’m from somewhere else, but I belong.’”  Traditionally, royal brides have chosen a British fashion house for their big day. But, as Wintour pointed out, there were still ties to the U.K thanks to Givenchy creative director Clare Waight Keller's British roots. Keller was awarded UK Womenswear Designer of the Year at last year's Fashion Awards.  The Duchess surprised Keller at the ceremony, making a speech and giving her a hug. Keller appears to have become one of Meghan Markle's friends as the designer revealed that she "got to know Meghan on such a personal level." Since her wedding, Givenchy has become a regular fixture in Meghan Markle's wardrobe.  The Vogue editor-in-chief also spoke of her admiration for Markle's work ethic.  She said, “I read somewhere that there were members of the royal household that were confused and upset that she woke up so early at 5 a.m... She’s a normal California girl who gets up early and does yoga and meditates, and also sends a lot of text messages. I mean, what did they expect? That she was going to send messages via pigeon? So, I think she’s amazing.”  Wintour also said she admired the fact that Meghan initially walked down the aisle alone, with Prince Charles meeting her halfway.  She said, “The fact that she chose to walk down the aisle by herself, I also thought spoke for an independent woman.”  Meghan Markle wasn’t the only royal who has won over Wintour, as she also spoke warmly of Kate Middleton - heralding the two newcomers to the royal family as a welcome shift for Britain’s most famous family. “I think the two duchesses, the young duchesses that they have in Britain: the Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Sussex, are going to keep the royal family afloat quite frankly.”


eveningstandard--2019-01-26--The best summer wedding destinations and venues in Europe

So you’ve just got engaged to the love of your life, you’ve told you’re friends and family but now comes the even bigger decision: where to get married.  The UK is filled with quintessentially British venues, both charming and elegant, but with the average wedding in the UK setting newlyweds back £30,355, it’s no wonder many couples are looking towards our neighbours in Europe for venue options.  A destination wedding is an easy way to keep costs down. You can invite less people, get more for your pound and you spend less money on decorations when the location is your stunning backdrop.  Europe sparkles the most during summer, so below we’ve curated a list of our top destinations and venues to consider for your summer European wedding.  If a 130-acre estate in the Italian countryside sounds like you’re ideal wedding venue, then you’re in for a treat. The white-washed 16th century farmhouse-turned-luxury hotel combines minimalism with rustic touches to make a dream venue.  Surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and rolling green hills stretching towards the Ionian Sea, expect a day filled with romance and Italian sunshine. For an extra-special weekend, book out the hotel for just you and your guests to enjoy and spend the day after your wedding relaxing by the pool with your nearest and dearest.  Santorini, with its dramatic cliffs and iconic sunsets, is already one of the most romantic places in the world – so why not step it up a notch by hosting your wedding there too? Caldera’s Dolphin Suites is home to a 500 metre squared cliff-top space that offers majestic views over the caldera.  With space for 120 people (and technology to let you live-stream your wedding to guests who couldn't make it), you’ll be able to bask in the Greek sun during your big day, taking those all-important golden hour photos before watching the sunset with your loved ones.  A venue that caters to any budget, Gatezur is a spellbinding French mansion that dates back to 1401 and is located in the charming village of Arcangues. Surrounded by the green pastures and mountains of the Basque countryside, you can work with the venue to create a wedding tailored to your needs.  With three reception venues to choose from, our pick is to have dinner in the Orangerie which seats up to 130 guests. The glass-roofed room will create a magical feel and let you dine under the stars come nightfall.  A boutique hideaway on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, overlooking the picturesque Positano, a wedding here will be one to remember. The five-star luxury hotel offers an intimate wedding setting on a private balcony where you can embrace the fresh sea air.  Besides taking post card-worthy wedding photos on the terrace, you can also wander through the myriad of garden pathways nestled among vine-laded pergolas, bougainvillea, pine trees and tropical plants located at the base of the hotel.  With a secret garden and awe-inspiring interiors, Boyne Hill House in County Meath, just north of Dublin, is a quintessentially Irish bolthole for your big day.  Watch your guests arrive along the sweeping tree-lined driveway, pulling up to the elegant manor house before settling in to the Victorian walled ‘secret’ garden – complete with a waterfall, bridge and orchard -  to watch you say ‘I do’.  Bougainvilleas are aplenty here at this hotel located on the north side of the trendy Bodrum peninsula. The ideal place for an understated wedding, that lets the backdrop of the glistening Aegean Sea do all the hard work.  Macakizi is where you will find blissful bohemia at its peak and with the weather still hovering around 20 degrees come October, a later summer wedding should be in the cards. Book out the beach club for your reception and dance the night away under the stars and to the sound of the soothing waves.  Vis is one of the best-kept secrets in the Adriatic, with azure waters, natural beauty and a world away from the hustle and bustle of regular European summer tourist destinations.  Sitting pretty on a high perch of the island is Fort George – a 200-year-old restored fort. With a balmy garden, shaded by pine trees and spectacular sea views, watch one of the most magical island sunsets with your family and friends while glowing in the fact that you just married the person you love.  Another property draped in bougainvillea, this stunning villa just 15 minutes from the centre of Spain’s Seville is perfect for an intimate garden wedding with sunlight filtering through the tree branches above.  The venue will cater to your needs, so hold your outdoor reception under a plethora of fairy lights to create a magical setting.  If ‘idyllic’ is your only criteria when searching for a wedding venue, then this historic castle in the Tuscan hills should do the trick. Tuscany has long been a place for romance, and this 11th century castle embodies the charm and splendour Italy is known for.  The garden and terrace look over the Chianti hills during the ceremony and you can choose to dine inside the castle or al fresco under the moon and strings of fairy lights come nightfall. Simply magical.  Perched atop a steep cliff and looking over Slovenia’s most iconic landmark – the Lake Bled church – celebrate your nuptials at the fairytale Bled Castle.  You can decide to hold your nuptials at the church on the lake or at the castle, before holding an outdoor reception on the castle’s terrace overlooking the lake for a very Instagram-worthy party.  With crashing waves and rugged cliffs as your backdrop, this is a beachside wedding at its finest. Opt for the solarium or the upper balcony overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and hold your ceremony at sunset for stunning photos.  An indoor or outdoor reception are available and whatever you choose will allow you for a relaxed wedding with a bougie vibe.


eveningstandard--2019-01-29--Groom walks for miles in heavy snow to attend wedding ceremony in India

A groom in India has trekked nearly four miles in heavy snow to attend his wedding ceremony.  Around 80 people were due to attend the wedding on Friday, but as they left from Triyuginarayan village, they became stranded in traffic after roads were closed by the snow.  The family decided to send only the guests who were needed for the traditional wedding rituals including the groom’s uncle, sisters and elderly relatives, the Hindustan Times reported.  Dressed in their wedding attire, the family began the six kilometre (3.7 mile) long procession to the ceremony on foot.  But, asked if it was a difficult journey, the groom’s brother, Ashish Gairola, told the paper: “If you see the pictures then you would question whether they were even feeling cold, forget difficulty. My eight-year-old son played with snow throughout the way.”  Bijay Lal, head of Triyuginarayan village, said despite the unusually long procession, the wedding went off without a hitch.  “Even I had to go to the wedding but (we) were all stuck due to the snow,” he told the paper.  “But those who went enjoyed the whole journey and the wedding took place without any problem.”  The snow has caused major disruption to the village, which has been without power for seven days.


eveningstandard--2019-02-26--40 wedding photos that perfectly capture the emotion and hilarity of the big day

There is nothing quite like a wedding, and what makes them so special are all the individual moments spread throughout the day.  From the bride sharing a whisper with her father before going down the aisle, or the shy flower girl kidnapping some canapes, we want to make sure these special moments, and the incredible wedding photographers that capture them, are celebrated.  This year, once again, Bridebook challenged hundreds of Bridebook’s best wedding photographers to send us their most unique, funny, tender and outrageous wedding photos from their 2018 weddings, so we could share those magical moments for all to enjoy.  So without further ado, here are our favourite wedding photos of 2018.  How many times do you get an opportunity to take a picture of the bride on a roller coaster? This was one of the most exciting moments in this photographer’s career (we just wonder how he did it…).  This bride and groom snuck into a telephone box at the Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, where they tied the knot.  The photographer caught these lads having a laugh and a beer in the bathtub! They got ready in a jiffy and had plenty of time to relax before the wedding.  Pit stop! That’s what bridesmaids are for, no?  This photo was taken just as this little girl’s mother (the bride), stepped out of the room in her wedding dress. Her expression says it all.  The best man had just told a rather risqué story about the groom and the range of reactions at his punchline are incredible.  Yawns and bubbles. This baby’s nap-time wasn’t going to stop her dad from toasting the bride and groom.  The couple’s gorgeous dog was brought along to the wedding and had some big kisses for dad.  These kids were trying to wind their grandmother up as she kept telling them to behave.  A very heavy downpour catches wedding guests as they head to the village church in Leicestershire. A classic British wedding.  Dad witnessing all the chaos as the girls get prepared.  A 7-foot dinosaur on the dance floor? Looks like this Bridezilla found her match.  Happy tears begin to flow with the bride’s brother cradling his daughter while watching his sister, the bride, dancing with their father.  Grandma seeing her grandaughter in her wedding dress for the very first time – a very emotional moment for all.  Veil stuck on a hedge, new husband comes to the rescue.  You might look stunning but no one said putting the dress on was easy. Which is why every bride needs their squad of bridesmaids.  Hindu weddings are packed with symbolism. Here Pooja’s parents come together to place the final pieces of jewellery before her ceremony.  This groom couldn’t hold in the tears alongside his best man, as his bride walked into their wedding.  This mum couldn’t hide her excitement as she watched the ceremony.  The in-between moments, where guests come to greet each other before the party, are often the most beautiful and filled with love.  This dad was very emotional upon seeing his beautiful daughter in her wedding dress.  These groomsmen waited patiently as the bride and groom signed their names. The moment was captured beautifully.  Who doesn’t love smoke bombs in front of a beautiful stately home? Woodhall Manor looks amazing in this shot.  Double trouble. One of 2018’s biggest trends was llamas at weddings. Let’s just hope the trend continues.  This was a shot taken at Tower Hill Barns in North Wales. These little pageboys were having great fun in the camper van and their playfulness makes for a great photo.  This newborn baby was just a couple of weeks old, and when the mum brought her to show the bride, everyone in the room wanted to take turns holding her. We love the blissed out expression on her face.  This photographer got the wedding guests involved with their phones during the reception to make this original photo.  This bride wanted their dog in the picture as they signed the papers. The photographer got the perfect angle.  Photographers often crack jokes to keep family photos fun and energetic. This granny said she had something to make everyone laugh, and with a serious face, flashed the photographer.  A lovely moment is captured as the bride and groom dance. If only everyone could look that majestic during their first dance.  The bride and groom didn’t want to do a traditional first dance, so they taught themselves to dance to ‘Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger’ by Daft Punk.  These ushers got creative when asked to move the floral arrangements from the church up to the marquee.  During the cake cutting, the groom noticed a bottle of Champagne on the table and immediately grabbed it. His wife said no… but it was far too late.  A tender moment between the groom and his bride during his speech.  One of the most beautiful photos on the list. We love how the photographer capture this fairytale moment.  These lovely brides having a moment to themselves, overlooking the Cornish coast before their wedding takes place.  These grooms had their reception at a golf course but it rained, but that didn’t stop them from having lots of fun outside in the rain.


eveningstandard--2019-03-20--Greg Shepherd shares new snaps of luxurious Maldives wedding to Billie Faiers

Greg Shepherd has shared fun snaps from his Maldives wedding to Billie Faiers, which took place earlier this month.  The reality star pair tied the knot at the beginning on March, saying "I do" in an intimate ceremony in the island of Kuramathi.  Shepherd and Faiers shared the first pictures of the wedding with OK! magazine but have since treated fans to a selection of snaps on their social media pages.  On Tuesday night, Shepherd posted an array of pictures from their special day, including shots of the bride and groom with friends and family.  “Finally the day we became 4 sheps #billieisashep,” wrote Shepherd beside a beautiful family snap.  Other shots showed him with his groomsman and other male mates at the ceremony, allowing him a moment to pay tribute to his best men and ushers.  He wrote: “Thank to my best men and ushers could not have done the 4 stags and a wedding without you. Lot of love for you boys #billieisashep #bestmen #ushers.”  The couple, who got together in 2011, share four-year-old daughter Nelly and two-year-old son Arthur. Both children played a key role in the wedding ceremony.  Faiers, who rose to fame on The Only Way Is Essex, recently opened up about plans for a third child in the future.  “As for baby number three, it’s not a priority at the moment but never say never,” Faiers told OK!.  “We obviously missed the kids so much but we had such a whirlwind of a week. It was nice to take some time for Greg and I to reflect on everything.”  While in the Maldives, reports claimed that the “rowdy” guests had been the source of some disruption at the luxury resort, with allegations of Shepherd “swearing” at fellow residents.  But the claims were soon shut down by Faiers, who told OK! that the hotel manager “never received any complaints” and insisted them and their party were “very respectful” of other residents.


eveningstandard--2019-05-28--The average cost of attending a UK wedding in 2019 revealed

The average cost of attending a UK wedding in 2019, revealed

The average cost of attending a wedding in 2019 has been revealed – and it's rather a lot.  American Express has released its annual wedding study which estimates how much guests are likely to spend attending ceremonies in the UK.  According to the report, which surveyed 2,000 adults, 2019 guests are set to fork out an average of £391 each to celebrate a big day, which is almost a third more than in 2018.  The Amex research also found that the number of weddings that Brits are expected to attend in 2019 has fallen, with the average Brit expected to attend just one ceremony this year, down from an average of three in 2018.  The biggest expenses were for hotels, outfits, followed by a wedding gift – on which guests are expected to spend an average of £66, up from £57 last year.


birminghammail--2019-02-27--Hundreds attend funeral of well mannered teenage murder victim Abdullah Muhammad

Hundreds attend funeral of 'well mannered' teenage murder victim Abdullah Muhammad

Up to 800 mourners attended the funeral of Abdullah Muhammad who was murdered in a Small Heath Park.  The 16-year-old described as a “well mannered” student with “potential” was laid to rest exactly a week after he was fatally stabbed in Sara Park, Herbert Road.  Hundreds of Abdullah’s friends, family and the community attended the solemn ceremony at Green Lane Mosque, in Small Heath, just before 1pm.  Worshippers listened to funeral prayers and a speech given by the Imam before the tragic student was laid to rest in Handsworth Cemetery.  Abdullah is one of the three similar aged boys who have been murdered within miles of each other in the past fortnight as a stabbing epidemic rips through the cit y and devastates families.  Kamran Hussain from the mosque- which has been supporting his family- said around 700 - 800 mourners had attended his funeral.  Three teenager murders, 97 stabbings and 269 knife crimes in Birmingham in EIGHT WEEKS  Earlier, he said: “Abdullah Muhammad was a student at Green Lane Mosque and Community Centre (GLMCC) where he had registered in January 2019 with his younger brother and father to attend evening classes in Green Lane's educational Institute.  “He had only recently started attending classes for the new term where he was studying the memorisation of the Holy Qur’an (Hifz).  “GLMCC has been truly saddened by the news and the needless loss of yet another young life on the streets of Birmingham.  “Members from the mosque and community centre including the Head of Education visited the family to pay their condolences on Saturday morning.  “The teachers commented on Abdullah being a very well-mannered young man with ambition and potential.  “This is an immense loss for the family and we pray that Allah (God) grants them patience.”  A 15-year-old boy, who was assaulted, suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.  Deputy Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe said: “We’ll be leaving no stone unturned to find those responsible and bring them to justice.  “You’ll see a very robust policing response that‘s sensitive to the fears and concerns of our local communities.  “Our thoughts remain with Abdullah’s family, friends and the local community in Small Heath."


drudgereport--2019-03-16--Town holds funeral for crocodile

Town holds funeral for crocodile...

The family of late conservationist Steve Irwin praised the town's positive attitude towards the crocodile  With Elton John's "Crocodile Rock" playing in the background and a tribute from Steve Irwin's family, a small seaside town in north Queensland bade farewell to a beloved community member Saturday, a saltwater crocodile.  Affectionately known as Bismarck, Fluffy or Gary, depending on who you speak to, Cardwell residents held a ceremony to say goodbye to the town's 4.5 metre (15 feet) croc.  More than 50 people attended the service, held at the Cardwell Jetty and organised by local Thea Ormonde.  Bismarck made international headlines earlier this month, when fisherman Ryan Moody posted a video to social media about finding the crocodile -- rumoured to be as old as 80 -- dead in a creek with what's believed to be a gunshot wound.  The family of late bushman Steve Irwin sent a representative and recorded a thank you to the small town that played at the service, praising their positive attitude towards the reptiles.  They said their late husband and father -- a zookeeper and conservationist -- would have been the proudest of Cardwell residents for accepting the croc as a part of their town.  "He was so, so passionate about protecting crocodiles and making sure we had these modern-day dinosaurs for the future generations," Irwin's daughter Bindi and son Rob said.  Ormonde told AFP she couldn't believe the interest the crocodile's death attracted from across the world.  "Bismarck delighted locals and tourists as he was always happy to show himself at a safe distance," she said.  "I believe he lived by the belief, 'you leave me alone and I'll leave you alone.'"  Not everyone had the same feeling about honouring Bismarck though.  Local Member of Parliament Nick Dametto said "there's no proof the animal has been shot, it's still very much under investigation."  "I grew up hunting and I was always taught if you're going to hunt something, you should do it for two reasons -- pest management or to use or eat parts of the animal" he said.  A spokesperson from Cardwell Police confirmed they are currently investigating the death of the crocodile to see if it's been killed illegally.  In Queensland, the illegal taking of a crocodile has a maximum fine of Aus$28,383 (US$20,000).


eveningstandard--2019-06-03--Jose Antonio Reyesapos funeral held in hometown of Utrera as hundreds of mourners pay their respec

Jose Antonio Reyes' funeral held in hometown of Utrera as hundreds of mourners pay their respects

Hundreds of people paid their respects on Monday morning at the funeral of former Sevilla player Jose Antonio Reyes, who died in a car accident on Saturday morning.  Reyes crashed his Mercedes at high speed on the A376 between Seville and Utrera and was killed as the vehicle caught fire after colliding with the barrier on the left side of the road.  One of his cousins also died, while the other is stable although still in a critical condition with severe injuries in hospital.  More than 11,000 people were present at Sevilla’s Sanchez Pizjuan stadium on Sunday to say their goodbyes to the popular player and the coffin was taken to the player’s place of birth, Utrera, for the funeral on Monday.  Family members, former team-mates and friends were present, along with Sevilla president Jose Castro and Utrera mayor Francisco Jimenez.  Two flags, one representing Sevilla and the other the town of Utrera, were draped over the coffin and the ceremony ended with an ovation for the former footballer, who also represented Real Madrid, Arsenal, Atletico, Espanyol, Benfica and most recently, Extremadura.  Reyes has two young daughters with his second wife and a son from a previous marriage. His remains were cremated later on Monday.


sottnet--2019-07-04--Indian man 20 wakes up at his own funeral after being pronounced dead by doctors

Indian man, 20, wakes up at his own funeral after being pronounced dead by doctors

An Indian man who had been declared dead woke up just before he was set to be buried during a funeral ceremony, according to reports.Mourners at Mohammad Furqan, 20, was declared dead by Indian medical professionals, but his surprise awakening at the funeral in the Northern Indian city of Lucknow shocked mourners.He was immediately brought to the hospital and put on a ventilator to support him, according to the Independent Furqan had been unconscious since June 21 when he got into an accident. Doctors declared him dead on Monday but coincidentally only after the man's family told the hospital that looked after him they no longer had the funds to pay for his care.The family told the Hindustan Times that the situation left them traumatized because they not only had to come to terms with Furqan's passing, but then see him move during the funeral."Devastated, we were preparing for the burial when some of us saw movement in his limbs. We immediately took Furqan to the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital where the doctors said he was alive and have put him on ventilator support," older brother Mohammad Irfan told the outlet.The city's chief medical officer also told the outlet that an investigation is underway into the country's medical practices."We have taken cognizance of the incident and the matter will be thoroughly probed," Narendra Agarwal told the outlet."The patient is in critical condition but definitely not brain dead. He has pulse, blood pressure and his reflexes are working. He has been put on ventilator support."


sputnik--2019-08-22--Guns Fail to Fire Salute at Funeral of Ex-Chief Minister of Indian State

The humiliating episode at the funeral of former chief minister Jagannath Mishra on Wednesday 21 August took place in the presence of Bihar’s incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other dignitaries. It went viral on video, Indian daily the Times of India and news agency ANI reported.  In the video, an embarrassed police officer is seen approaching the 22 police personnel deployed for funeral duties to examine and test their guns, and defective bullets picked up from the ground at the cremation venue. He then walks away, resigning himself to an event, not in his control.  Netizens lampooned the state administration and the police over this shocking lapse in established protocol. Some said the former chief minister had gotten what he deserved because of his alleged acts of corruption.  Eventually, though, Mishra's mortal remains were cremated with full state honours at his ancestral village in Bihar’s Supaul district.  A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the lapse as serious. He said the concerned department and their officers should have ensured that all guns used at the funeral ceremony were functional and cartridges usable.  “We have sought an explanation from the district police of Supaul…” the media report quoted the official as saying.


sputnik--2019-09-28--About 30 Leaders to Attend Funeral Ceremony of Former French President Chirac Reports

About 30 Leaders to Attend Funeral Ceremony of Former French President Chirac – Reports

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said earlier in the day that Russian President Vladimir Putin would visit Paris to take part in the ceremony.  Along with Putin, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, Charles Michel of Belgium, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker will be among those who will join the memorial service.  Chirac passed away on 26 September at age 87, surrounded by his family. He will reportedly be buried near his daughter, who died in 2016, at the Montparnasse cemetery in Paris. According to the French presidential office, national memorial service will be held at the Invalides monument in Paris on Sunday.  Born in Paris on 29 November 1932, into a banking family, Chirac graduated from the Paris Institute of Political Studies in 1954 and went on to become one of France's most prominent politicians. After assuming the presidency in 1995, Chirac immediately initiated sweeping social reforms. In 2002, he won reelection against then-head of the National Front party Jean-Marie Le Pen. Upon his departure from office, Chirac supported the presidential bid of his interior minister, Nicolas Sarkozy.


sputnik--2019-09-28--Putin Will Visit France to Attend Chiracs Funeral Ceremony - Kremlin

Putin Will Visit France to Attend Chirac's Funeral Ceremony - Kremlin

Peskov confirmed that the Russian president would visit Paris for Chirac's memorial service. According to an earlier statement from the French presidential press service, Paris expects Putin to take part in the ceremony, scheduled for Monday. About 30 heads of states and governments will attend the service, Europe 1 reported, citing the Élysée Palace.  Chirac, who served as long-time mayor of Paris, became the president in 1995 and left the seat in 2007. He passed away on Thursday at age 87, surrounded by his family.  The ex-president will be laid to rest at the Montparnasse cemetery in Paris, near his daughter, who died in 2016. According to the office of the French president, a national memorial service will be held at Les Invalides in Paris on Sunday.


thedailymirror--2019-01-27--Heartbroken family mourn at funeral of boy 2 who fell down a well in Malaga

Heartbroken family mourn at funeral of boy, 2, who fell down a well in Malaga

A devastated family gathered at the funeral of a little boy who fell down a well in Malaga.  The body of Julen Rosello, two, who plunged 250ft down the hole was discovered after two weeks of searching .  Julen's tiny body was found yesterday morning at around 1.25am local time after rescue teams had dug out a 13ft tunnel by hand.  Parents Jose and Vicky, both 29, slept on mattresses in a tent by the well in Malaga as specialist teams fought to save their boy.  His funeral took place today, where hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects.  The ceremony was at the beachfront district of El Palo in Malaga, where the little boy's body was taken by hearse last night.  Devastated parents Vicky and Jose, were seen comforting each other in the square outside the cemetery.  His dad was also seen clutching a football as he sat down for the service.  Julen was buried alongside his brother, Oliver, who died aged three in 2017 due to cardiac problems.  Crowds of people at the entrance to the cemetery applauded as Julen's family arrived for the burial.  A minute's silence was also held for the little boy at 11am yesterday.  Officials have not commented on the autopsy, which was carried out at the Institute of Forensic Institute of Medicine, insisting that the results would be sent to an investigating court and would not be made public.  But Malaga-based paper Sur said the medical examination had indicated his death occurred on January 13 - the same day he plunged 232ft down a well on family-owned land in Totalan a half-hour drive from the Costa del Sol.  A central government spokesman for the country’s Andalucia region said ahead of the post-mortem it was a “free fall” before his “rapid” drop was stopped by a blockage of earth and sand part of the way down the 350ft well.  Other Spanish papers including El Mundo said Julen had suffered multiple injuries compatible with a fall from height including a blow to his head.  Julen’s parents Jose and Vicky were being comforted yesterday at a funeral parlour in El Palo, the Malaga neighbourhood where they live and have spent most of the day.  Before his body was recovered, his grandmother Reme Garcia posted an emotional message alongside a hand-drawn picture of a heart sketched inside an imaginary hole at the bottom of the borehole.  She said: “My little boy is here.  “I’m waiting for you and I don’t know how to live without you. Hold on my little warrior. Don’t give up.  "You are a champion and your brother is with you. I love you.”  A Swedish firm which helped locate the 33 Chilean miners rescued in 2010 after 69 days underground joined the massive operation to try to locate Julen ahead of his hoped-for rescue alive.  Dad Jose said in a press conference: “We’re dead inside but with the hope we have an angel watching over us who is going to help him to come out alive as soon as possible.”  He spoke after telling Spanish media how his son fell down the borehole at around 2pm on Sunday as he was getting more firewood for a paella he was preparing.  He told Malaga-based paper Sur: “My wife went to phone into work to let them know she wasn’t going.  “She was with Julen and asked me to keep an eye on him as she made the call. He was only a few feet away.  “I went to get a couple of logs for the fire for the paella and he began to run.  “We saw how he fell down the hole, my cousin more than me because she was closer.”  Julen’s parents were comforted by the father of a Spanish five-year-old girl killed by a paedophile in January 2008.  Juan Jose Cortes, who received a message of support from Gerry and Kate McCann after his daughter Mari Luz’s body was found, travelled to the meet Jose and fast food restaurant worker Vicky.


thedailymirror--2019-05-30--Melissa Ede Colourful dress code for transgender Lottery millionaires funeral

Melissa Ede: 'Colourful' dress code for transgender Lottery millionaire's funeral

The funeral of transgender lottery millionaire Melissa Ede will take place today - with guests being urged to dress "as colourful as possible".  Transgender LGBT campaigner Miss Ede, 58, died from a heart attack earlier this month, her fiancee Rachel Nason has said.  The former Hull taxi driver was already known for her off-the-wall online videos and appearances on daytime TV shows when she scooped £4 million on a scratchcard 18 months ago.  Ms Ede's funeral will take place at Hull's Chanterlands Crematorium, followed by a private ceremony and then a wake in the city.  The funeral notice said the day will "celebrate her extraordinary life" and advised that the dress code is "as colourful as possible - Preferably LGBT style".  Ms Nason explained how Ms Ede had gone to hospital on May 5, but came back to her Hull home five hours later "with the all clear".  She described how, a week later, she heard her car engine revving and went out to find her slumped at the wheel.  Ms Nason said that a post-mortem examination had revealed Ms Ede had ischemic heart disease, which led to a sudden heart attack.  She said on Facebook : "It's completely devastated so many of us, and to be taken so suddenly and unexpectedly is heartbreaking."  She added: "If there was more people in the world like Mel then it would be such a better place.  "There's no words to describe how we feel at this moment in time but Mel is going to be missed so, so much."


thedailyrecord--2019-02-27--Military funeral at Ayr Auld Kirk for tragic soldier

Comrades and family will pay tribute to soldier Jock McKelvie this Friday.  The 51-year-old will be given a full military send off from noon at the Auld Kirk in Ayr. The Staff Sergeant died in hospital six days after his armoured vehicle overturned at Catterick Garrison  Jock, originally from Drongan, lived in Dundonald with his second wife Julie and he was a father of two.  Funeral arrangements are being handled by director Lorraine Morton of ML Williams of Ayr. She has previous experience of a military funeral and took Jock into her care on Monday.  Lorraine said:”This will be a big, big funeral and he will be given full military honours.”  After the ceremony, led by the Rev David Gemmell, Jock will be laid to rest at Drongan Cemetery from 1.30pm onwards. The accident happened at Catterick Garrison on January 29 and Jock died on February 4 in the James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough.  He had survived tours of duty in Iraq, Kuwait and Bosnia, only to die in a training exercise. His dad Robert said he “loved the army and was 25 years in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and was a Challenger tank commander.”  John signed up for more army life after retiring from the regulars, joining the Scottish and Northern Irish Yeomanry.


theepochtimes--2019-10-02--2000-Plus Turn Up at Funeral of Florida Veteran With No Kin

An honor guard folds an American flag during an open funeral service for U.S. Army veteran Edward K. Pearson, on Oct. 1, 2019, at the Sarasota National Cemetary in Sarasota, Fla. Pearson has no family so his funeral home sent out a request on social media for the public to attend the service. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)  2,000-Plus Turn Up at Funeral of Florida Veteran With No Kin  SARASOTA, Fla.—Most of the 2,000-plus people who gathered in the Florida heat on Oct. 1 didn’t know Edward Pearson. They knew little, if anything, about the life of the 80-year-old Army veteran.  But they knew of his death, and that was reason enough to attend his funeral. They came on rumbling Harley Davidsons and in sleek Mercedes. They walked into the service with the aid of canes and service dogs. Women clasped bouquets of white flowers. Men gripped American flags large and small.  Pearson, a resident of Naples, Florida, died Aug. 31. His obituary went viral when the funeral director included this sentence in the service announcement: This veteran has no immediate family and all are welcome to attend.  News of the ceremony at an open-air pavilion area at the Sarasota National Cemetery spread fast and wide in veterans’ forums and on social media networks. CNN host Jake Tapper and U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio tweeted the information.  For many in the region — a place with thousands of retirees and veterans — it was impossible to think they wouldn’t attend.  “You know what? There’s no way I’m going to let him do this alone,” said Willie Bowman, 62, a Purple Heart recipient and career Army veteran. “I’ve never met the man. But he’s a veteran and he’s a brother of mine.”  Pearson was born in Pennsylvania and moved to Florida 25 years ago. He worked at a grocery store for a bit, and at a hardware store. One woman in the community got to know him after Hurricane Irma in 2017: Patty Thrasher, a customer service representative for the Collier County Tax Collector’s office.  The storm had damaged the roof of Pearson’s mobile home. Water rained into the kitchen through a blue tarp and when Pearson sought government aid to help with repairs and needed a title, Thrasher discovered that he didn’t actually own the home at all. The man who sold him the home wasn’t actually the owner, but a swindler who took advantage of an elderly person, she said.  With Thrasher’s help, the community came together to secure a title for the home, fix the roof and pay a past electric bill. Pearson told Thrasher that he didn’t want to “be on the news” for his plight and was hesitant to ask for help at all. He was preparing to move into a new place when he died.  Cemetery officials say it’s not uncommon for veterans to die—and be buried—without family. Volunteer groups, such as the Patriot Guard Riders, regularly attend such services. Some in the crowd on Tuesday said they attend veterans’ funerals at several cemeteries in Florida.  In Texas, there is a formal effort called the “Unaccompanied Veteran Burial Program” that makes sure veterans in the state receive full military honors.  On Tuesday, Thrasher said Pearson would have been overwhelmed by the thousands who stood in the heat to send him off.  “I think he would have just totally been in tears,” she said. “He’s looking down and probably crying his heart out.”


themanchestereveningnews--2019-02-04--Patricia died aged 79 with no family or friends and her funeral was arranged by social services - Sa

Patricia died aged 79 with no family or friends and her funeral was arranged by social services - Salford needs to give her a proper send off

Patricia Sunderland died aged 79 with no family or friends.  Her funeral was arranged by social services, with the help of a neighbour.  She lived in Salford all her life, but her funeral could be empty.  It's not the end anyone deserves.  Patricia's neighbour Donna De, who found her dead at her Eccles home, is desperate Salfordians to come together and give her a proper send off.  She went to Patricia's house to check on her after noticing her curtains had been shut for a few days.  "I knew in my gut something was wrong. I felt sad for her", Donna said.  Donna kept an eye on Patricia after noticing she was living alone a few years back.  They would sit together while Patricia told her about her life, including working at Piccadilly station.  She told Donna she never married and her only known relatives - her mum, dad and two brothers - died years ago.  Donna, 40, said: "I used to see her in her flat. I saw her struggling with her bags. I started talking to her last January.  "But I was always looking out for her before that, without speaking to her.  "I would make sure her curtains were open. She said she didn't have a garden. I'd make her some food and she'd be happy in my garden for a few hours.  "She used to sit and tell me about her life. She worked in the booking office for British Rail in Piccadilly Station for 35 years. She retired in March, 1993.  "She used to speak about her mum and dad. I didn't want to ask her too much, I used to let her tell me.  "She was nice, she wasn't very shy. She'd speak her mind. She had a bit of a glint in her eye."  Born in Swinton, Patricia lived with her parents until they passed away, before living with her two brothers.  She moved into a bedsit in Ellesmere Park, where she lived for 18 years before the landlord sold the property.  It was around seven or eight years ago, Donna said, that she moved to a flat on Liverpool Road.  Donna helped arrange Patricia's funeral with social services. A ceremony will be held at Peel Green Crematorium, Liverpool Road, on Tuesday, February 5 at 1.40pm.  A wake will then be held at the Royal Sovereign Pub on Eccles Old Road.  Donna, who works as a carer, is calling on members of the public to attend, so they can give Patricia the send-off she deserves.  Otherwise, she said, it would just be her and the celebrant.  A status put up by Donna on Facebook, calling on members of the community to attend has been shared 1,700 times.  "It's nice for Patricia, she'd be proud", she said.


thesun--2019-01-31--Hundreds turn out for funeral of army veteran who died aged 81 with no relatives

AN army veteran who died with no relatives was given a hero's send off today as hundreds turned out to his funeral.  George Formstone, a former Royal Welch Fusilier died aged 81 alone at his home in Ruabon, Wales on January 9.  With no one to organise his funeral, Mr Formstone was not expected to receive a traditional military service.  But the local community rallied round to ensure the veteran received a ceremony befitting his service to the nation.  Mr Formstone is understood to have served with the 1st Battalion Royal Welch Fusiliers in Cyprus during the EOKA Emergency in the late 1950’s.  Peter McGivern, the landlord at the Bridge End Inn, Ruabon — where Mr Formstone was a local — felt it was important that he should be buried with full military honours.  An online appeal urging old comrades to attend was launched and Mr McGivern set about organising the funeral.  Pentre Broughton funeral directors, Roberts Bros and Des Williams, assistant regional secretary for the Royal Welch Fusiliers organised for the coffin to be draped in the Union Jack flag.  The Last Post was played as his coffin was lowered into the ground.  Those who knew Mr Formstone attended the funeral at Plas Acton Cemetery at 10.30am this morning.  A wake, organised by Mr McGivern, took place at the Bridge End Inn following the burial.  Mr McGivern, who read a eulogy at the funeral, described Mr Formstone as a "good man".  He said: "He was a loner, but he wasn't lonely. He had a wide circle of friends and angling was his life. He was part of the Prince Albert Angling Society for over 30 years.  "He was a very independent and private man who would talk and listen to others. He had a great rapport with our bar staff and he was always very kind and helpful.  "He didn't have a television but he listened to his radio regularly and he was a huge Leeds fan.  "He was a good man I really liked him and we were his family for the last ten years or so."  Born on October 5, 1937, Mr Formstone, is understood to have grown up in Hope, Flintshire, before leaving home at the age of 14.  We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at tips@the-sun.co.uk or call 0207 782 4368. You can WhatsApp us on 07810 791 502. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thetelegraph--2019-06-18--Mohammed Morsi swiftly buried after being denied public funeral in hometown

Egypt’s ousted president Mohamed Morsi was buried this morning at a small family ceremony in Cairo after authorities refused permission for a burial in his home province of Sharqiya.  Morsi, who was deposed in a 2013 military coup after becoming the nation’s first democratically elected president, collapsed and died in court on Monday evening after suffering a fatal heart attack.  He was facing several long-running prosecutions stemming from his year-long reign.  The 67-year-old was buried at 5am on Tuesday next to the graves of other leaders of the now-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood.  The ceremony took place with just five family members in attendance.  “The state wants to avoid this becoming a catalyst for any kind of mobilisation,” said Tim Kaldas of the Tahrir Institute for Middle East politics. “That was the point of burying him so quickly, and in a place that’s harder to turn into a pilgrimage site.”


thetorontostar--2019-05-14--Ex-Sen Lugar hailed as peacemaker ahead of Indiana funeral

Ex-Sen. Lugar hailed as peacemaker ahead of Indiana funeral

INDIANAPOLIS - Longtime U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar was hailed for being a peacemaker as a two-day tribute began Tuesday with a military honour guard leading his flag-draped casket into the Indiana Statehouse Rotunda. A couple hundred people gathered with Lugar’s wife, Charlene, and other family members for the Statehouse ceremony after which he was to lie in repose for 24 hours ahead of his funeral on Wednesday.  Lugar was a leading Republican voice on foreign policy matters during his 36 years in the U.S. Senate, with his leading achievement being his work helping spur the dismantling of thousands of former Soviet nuclear weapons after the Cold War ended. Lugar, who was Indianapolis mayor for eight years before his first Senate election win in 1976, died April 28 at age 87. “In his love and through his courage, Richard Lugar helped bring more peace to an increasingly dangerous world,” Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said. “He did so in every nuclear, chemical and biological weapon disarmed.” Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb and Hogsett placed wreaths with sashes reading “Indiana” and “Indianapolis” next to Lugar’s casket as public viewing began in the Statehouse.  Vice-President Mike Pence will be travelling to his home state for Wednesday’s funeral. Pence said in a Twitter post that Lugar was “an American statesman whose contributions to our nation are countless.” The former Indiana governor said he would deliver a eulogy for a “great man who inspired so many in public service — including me.” Hogsett, a Democrat, extoled Lugar for his willingness to work across the partisan divide and alluded to the senator’s cerebral and soft-spoken nature. “He fought hatred, he did not court it,” Hogsett said. “He calmed fear, he did not attempt to use it. He extinguished violence, he did not countenance it.” Lugar was a reliable conservative vote in the Senate, but he worked closely with Democratic Georgia Sen. Sam Nunn in the early 1990s to launch the program under which the U.S. paid to dismantle and secure weapons in the former Soviet states. The Nunn-Lugar program led to about 7,600 Soviet nuclear warheads being deactivated and the destruction of more than 900 intercontinental ballistic missiles by the time Lugar left office in 2013, according to U.S. military figures.  Lugar worked with Barack Obama after the future Democratic president entered the Senate in 2005, taking Obama with him to Russia, Ukraine and Azerbaijan to visit weapon dismantlement sites. Lugar’s co-operation with Obama, however, became a political handicap as his Senate career ended with a 2012 Republican primary loss to a tea party favourite. Obama awarded Lugar the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honour, soon after he left the Senate in 2013. Obama praised Lugar after his death as exhibiting “the truth that common courtesy can speak across cultures.”  “In Dick, I saw someone who wasn’t a Republican or Democrat first, but a problem-solver — an example of the impact a public servant can make by eschewing partisan divisiveness to instead focus on common ground,” Obama said. Indiana’s governor on Tuesday credited Lugar with a long life of service to his state and country. “As we gather to say goodbye, it’s our job to carry that torch that this mighty man lived,” Holcomb said.


thetorontostar--2019-06-01--Funeral for Congos Etienne Tshisekedi presidents father

Funeral for Congo’s Etienne Tshisekedi, president’s father

KINSHASA, Congo - Opposition icon Etienne Tshisekedi, whose son is now Congo’s president, was laid to rest Saturday in his homeland more than two years after he died during a political stalemate over the country’s long-delayed elections. A funeral procession joined by thousands made its way to the outskirts of Kinshasa following several days of tributes to the man who was the face of Congo’s opposition for decades but died before his political nemesis agreed to step aside and allow a new presidential vote to go forward.  In life, Tshisekedi was at times put under house arrest and his supporters jailed. But on Saturday the 84-year-old received a farewell befitting a former leader now that his son, Felix, holds the presidency in this sprawling Central African nation. Tens of thousands greeted his casket as it was driven through the streets of the capital Thursday evening and then displayed at Martyrs Stadium the following day. Even the political coalition of his lifelong adversary, former President Joseph Kabila, issued a statement calling Tshisekedi “undoubtedly one of the major political actors of our country.” At the time of his 2017 death in Brussels, family members say Kabila had blocked the return of his body to Congo for fear it could foment unrest and more calls for his ouster.  Tshisekedi was one of the most outspoken critics of Kabila, at one point accusing him of treason for not stepping down when his mandate ended. Kabila eventually allowed elections to be held in January, which Felix Tshisekedi won.  It took the hearse seven hours to reach its destination in Kinshasa on Thursday night as throngs of supporters took to the streets. “I’m sorry that his body had to stay two years abroad but today we are showing our commitment to him still,” Georgette Lobota said as she sold bread at the sports stadium where Tshisekedi’s body lay in state Friday, dressed in fabric with his image. “He will finally be honoured as a dignified son of Congo.” On Saturday, Mass was celebrated and then he was interred at a mausoleum 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Kinshasa during a private ceremony with family members. Tshisekedi helped found Congo’s main opposition party, UDPS, back in 1982 during the rule of then-dictator Mobutu Sese Seko. Two years after the country allowed multiple political parties in 1990, Tshisekedi became prime minister in an uneasy on-again, off-again partnership with Mobutu.  He went into exile in 2000 after repeated clashes with the government of Joseph Kabila’s father, Laurent, who became president after Mobutu’s departure and then was assassinated in 2001. At one point, Tshisekedi was banished to internal exile in his home village 700 kilometres (435 miles) west of the capital but he made a triumphant return in 2003.  His international prominence grew in 2011, when he declared himself president after an election marred by allegations of vote-rigging by the ruling party. He was placed under de facto house arrest but later left for Belgium to get medical treatment. Tshisekedi kept up his criticism until the end, at one point accusing Kabila of a “coup d’état that was carried out with the blessing of the constitutional court.” Kabila’s government, under international pressure, eventually cleared the way for an election after 18 years in power, although Felix Tshisekedi’s victory early this year was disputed. Another opposition candidate, Martin Fayulu, maintains that he won. Critics suggested that Felix Tshisekedi had reached a backroom deal with Kabila as the most palatable candidate after Kabila’s chosen candidate fared poorly. Felix Tshisekedi has denied that claim.

Saleh Mwanamilongo - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2019-12-25--Algeria buries contentious strongman in elaborate military funeral

ALGIERS, Algeria - Algeria held an elaborate military funeral Wednesday for the general who was the gas-rich country’s de facto ruler amid political turmoil throughout this year.  Big crowds packed the route of the funeral cortege Wednesday to pay homage to Gen. Ahmed Gaid Salah, chief of the armed forces. Some people ran alongside flower-draped military vehicles, shouting in grief. Others saluted his coffin, draped in the Algerian flag, or kissed his portrait.  The 79-year-old Gaid Salah died unexpectedly Monday after a heart attack, plunging Algeria into new uncertainty after 10 months of pro-democracy protests.  After a ceremony at the Palace of the People, he was buried at the El Alia cemetery alongside others who fought in Algeria’s war for independence from France. Algeria’s military plays a central role in decision-making in this country, a key ally to Western powers in fighting Islamic extremism.  Some mourned him as a symbol of the fading independence generation and a guarantor of stability amid this year’s protests. Others saw him as epitomizing an opaque leadership out of touch with worries of Algeria’s large youth population.  Gaid Salah helped force out longtime President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in April amid unprecedented, peaceful protests against corruption and Algeria’s secretive power structure.  The military chief then pushed for elections earlier this month, won by a former prime minister considered close to Gaid Salah, Abdelmadjid Tebboune.  Protesters later turned against Gaid Salah, demanding his departure and a wholesale makeover of Algeria’s political structure. Students held their regular weekly protests Tuesday after his death, despite the three days of official mourning declared by Algeria’s leadership.  Get more of the Star in your inbox Never miss the latest news from the Star. Sign up for our newsletters to get today's top stories, your favourite columnists and lots more in your inbox Sign Up Now


sputnik--2019-05-01--Thai King Marries Female General Ahead of Massive Coronation Ceremony

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn has married Suthida Tidjai in a private ceremony, with the former commander of his personal bodyguard unit named the country's queen effective immediately, just three days before Vajiralongkorn's inauguration, Thailand's The Nation portal has reported, citing government media.  Suthida, a 40-year-old former Thai Airways flight attendant and military officer, was appointed deputy commander of the king's household guard in 2014. Thai media speculated about the nature of their relationship for years following Vajiralongkorn's divorce from his former wife Srirasmi Suwadee in 2014, but these reports were never confirmed.  Suthida became commander of the Special Operations Unit of the King's Guard and promoted to the rank of full general in December 2016, shortly after Vajiralongkorn's ascendancy to the throne, and bestowed the royal rank of Than Phu Ying ('High Lady').  Vajiralongkorn, 66, took power the throne two years ago, after the death of his father King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who served as Thailand's king from 1946 until his death in 2016.  Vajiralongkorn and his bride will take part in a lavish $31 million coronation ceremony on Saturday, with some 150,000 people expected to attend the public ceremony at the Sanam Luang public square in front of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The formal ceremony is expected to run until Monday.  King Vajiralongkorn, who is the oldest Thai monarch to ever take the throne, was married and divorced three times before his marriage to Suthida, and is father to seven children. He is also believed to be the world's richest monarch, with Business Insider estimating the total holdings of the Crown Property Bureau to amount to over $30 billion.


sputnik--2019-06-18--Angela Merkel Raises Concern as She Trembles During Ceremony With Ukrainian President VIDEO

Angela Merkel Raises Concern as She Trembles During Ceremony With Ukrainian President (VIDEO)

German Chancellor Angela Merkel laid to rest concerns for her health on Tuesday after she was spotted visibly shaking during a ceremony in Berlin during which she greeted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.  Merkel smiled when reporters asked her about her trembling incident an hour earlier, during the red-carpet reception for Zelenskiy, responding with:  “Since then I've drunk at least three glasses of water, which I apparently needed, and now I'm doing very well.”  It is not known if the German chancellor has any health issues, writes AP.  Footage showed Merkel, who turns 65 next month, standing alongside Zelenskiy in the sweltering heat while a military band plays their national anthems outside the chancellery.  Desperate to get a grip, the German chancellor is seen pursing her lips while her entire body shook visibly.  At the subsequent joint news conference an hour later, Angela Merkel sought to redirect attention to her talks with the Ukrainian President, which dwelt on a number of bilateral issues and the Minsk peace process.  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived on Tuesday for his official visit to Germany. His agenda includes meetings with Bundestag President Wolfgang Schaeuble and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, as well as a number of other German politicians.  The programme of the official visit will end with a working dinner with the management of the leading German companies operating in Ukraine.  The Ukrainian delegation will leave for Kyiv late on Tuesday.


sputnik--2019-07-25--US President Trump Attends Ceremony Welcoming New Defence Secretary

US President Donald Trump is taking part in a Full Honours Welcome Ceremony for the new secretary of defence, Mark Esper, at the Pentagon in Arlington.  Two days earlier, the US Senate confirmed Esper's nomination with a 90-8 vote. He previously served as the defence chief in an acting capacity. Esper has officially replaced Jim Mattis at the post.  Follow Sputnik's live feed to find out more.


sputnik--2019-10-19--Presidential Regiment's Guard Changing Ceremony Takes Place on Cathedral Square in Moscow – Video

The Presidential Regiment’s sentry guard is held annually in the Kremlin in the warm season, from May to September. If weather is good, the season of the guard changing ceremony can be extended.  The sentry guard traditionally starts on Cathedral Square at noon. The special guard infantry, the cavalry honorary escort of the Presidential Regiment and the Presidential Orchestra take part in it.  Follow Sputnik feed to find out more.


tass--2019-02-12--IIHF President Rene Fasel to attend opening ceremony of 2019 Universiade in Russia

### President of the International Ice Hockey Federation Rene Fasel  © EPA/PETER SCHNEIDER  MOSCOW, February 12. /TASS/. President of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Rene Fasel and heads of other international sports federations plan attending the opening ceremony of the 2019 FISU Winter Universiade, Oleg Matytsin, the president of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), said on Tuesday.  "President of the International Olympic Committee [IOC] Thomas Bach will record a welcoming video for all participants of the Universiade," Matytsin told a news conference, hosted by TASS on Tuesday. "The opening ceremony will be attended by heads of major international sports federations, for instance, by President of the International Ice Hockey Federation Rene Fasel."  "It speaks again for the fact that Russia sets high standards in the organization of international projects and presidents of global sports federations are willing to participate," the FISU president said.  "Speaking about the broadcasting scale of the tournament, I should say that the television broadcast will cover 120 countries," Matytsin said. "An agreement with the Olympic channel has been also concluded and all FISU services will be rendering assistance regarding the broadcasting coverage of the tournament."  The Russian Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk, which has a population of over one million, was elected to host the 2019 Winter Universiade at the session of the FISU Executive Committee in Brussels in 2013. The event is scheduled for March 2-12, 2019.  The Winter Universiade is an international sporting and cultural festival which is staged every two years in a different city. The name of the international sports event is a combination of two words, which are ‘University’ and ‘Olympiad.’  It is only second to the Olympic Games. The program of the Winter Universiade currently includes 6 compulsory sports (8 compulsory disciplines) and up to 3 optional sports chosen by the host country.  In other media


theconservativetreehouse--2019-06-03--President Trump and First Lady Melania UK State Visit Arrival Ceremony Westminster Abbey Royal

President Trump and First Lady Melania U.K. State Visit – Arrival Ceremony, Westminster Abbey, Royal U.S-U.K Collection…

President Trump and First Lady Melania arrived to Buckingham Palace for the official state visit reception and ceremony with HRH Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles and Lady Parker Bowles.  (Video and pictorial below)  President Donald Trump and the First Lady Melania view a special exhibition in the Picture Gallery of items of historical significance to the U.S. from the Royal Collection:  President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive at Westminster Abbey to lay a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and then take a tour:


theconservativetreehouse--2019-07-24--President Trump Remarks During Oval Office Swearing-In Ceremony Defense Secretary Mark T Esper

President Trump Remarks During Oval Office Swearing-In Ceremony – Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper…

This evening President Trump delivered remarks during the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper.  [Video and Transcript]  The Senate voted 90-to-8 easily confirming Secretary Esper.  [Transcript] – THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much everybody. We have a very important moment in our country’s history, actually. And we had a lot of our great Republican senators in the White House, and I invited them over and many of them wanted to be here. And as you probably heard, the vote just took place, and it was 90 to 8. That’s a vote that we’re not accustomed to, Mark, I have to say that. So congratulations, that’s great.  But I’m honored to be here today for the swearing-in of our new Secretary of Defense, Mark T. Esper. I especially want to thank Justice Samuel Alito — highly respected and a great gentleman, a great man — for joining us to administer the Oath of Office. Thank you very much. Thank you, Sam.  We’re also delighted to welcome several of Secretary Esper’s family members and friends to the White House today, including his mother, Polly. Hi, Polly. (Laughter.) Boy, are you proud of him, Polly? You better believe it. Yeah. (Laughter.) His wife, Leah. Thank you, Leah, very much. And his three children — Luke, John, and Kathryn. Thank you very much. Congratulations, too, most importantly. Congratulations. That’s an incredible thing.  There is no one more qualified to lead the Department of Defense than Mark Esper. A West Point graduate — great student, actually — Secretary Esper served our military for 21 years, including in the Gulf War. He also advanced U.S. national security in government and in private sector, most recently as Secretary of the Army, where he played a critical role training and equipping our armed forces. That’s where I got to know Mark. And there was nobody that did a better job than Mark and there’s nobody that loves it more than Mark. And thank you very much.  He is a recipient of the Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge. He holds a doctorate in public policy from George Washington University and a master of public administration degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.  I am confident that he will be an outstanding Secretary of Defense. I have absolutely no doubt about it. He is outstanding in every way. And we’re honored to have you aboard. And I would ask Justice Alito, please, to administer the Oath of Office. Thank you. Thank you, Judge.  THE PRESIDENT: Would you like to say something?  SECRETARY ESPER: Yes, sir, if I may.  SECRETARY ESPER: Well, thank you, Mr. President, for your kind words, for your confidence in me, and for this incredible opportunity. And thank you, Justice Alito, for administering the Oath of Office. I really appreciate you being here this afternoon.  I’d also like to Senate — to thank the Senate Armed Services Committee for its quick action on my nomination and for the strong bipartisan support that I received today from the entire United States Senate.  It is an honor of a lifetime to be appointed Secretary of Defense and to lead the greatest military in history. And I will do so with that same energy and commitment to duty, honor, and country that I have for nearly four decades since my early days at West Point.  Mr. President, it is a privilege for me and for my family to be here with you today. Thank you for your leadership and for your commitment to a strong national defense and to all of our service members. Our military has made tremendous gains in recent years thanks to your leadership and we stand ready today to take on any challenge.  And while our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines stand guard each and every day, we will ensure their families are well taken care of.  On a personal note, I would like to thank my wife, Leah, who has been by my side now for 30 years as a military spouse herself; my children, Luke, John, and Kate; my mother, Polly; my in-laws, Tom and Von; and my sisters who join me here today. And everybody else who has been a steadfast supporter of me over the years.  Again, thank you, Mr. President, for allowing me to serve our great country once again, as Secretary of Defense. Thank you, sir. (Applause.)  THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Mark. Congratulations.  THE PRESIDENT: Fantastic. Proud of you. Come on over here.  THE PRESIDENT: He’s going to be a great one. Thank you very much.


sputnik--2019-08-11--Infantry and Cavalry Guard Changing Ceremony Showcased at All-Russian Exhibition Centre Video

Infantry and Cavalry Guard Changing Ceremony Showcased at All-Russian Exhibition Centre (Video)

A changing of the Infantry and Cavalry Guard of the Presidential Regiment is taking place on Sunday, 11 August, at the All-Russian Exhibition Centre in Moscow. The solemn ceremony is accompanied by a presidential military brass band. Following the ceremony, the spectators will be able to watch a performance by the Kremlin Equestrian School.  FOLLOW OUR LIVE FEED TO FIND OUT MORE


slate--2019-09-14--Watch Portland Soccer Fans Boo When President is Mentioned in Military Swearing-In Ceremony

Spectators at a Portland Thorns soccer game made their feelings on President Donald Trump very clear at a U.S. Armed Forces swearing-in ceremony at Providence Park. During the halftime of a game between the Portland Thorns and North Carolina Courage on Wednesday a group of enlistees came to the field and took the Oath of Enlistment. These types of events aren’t all that uncommon at sporting events across the country and the Thorns decided to schedule the ceremony after they realized they would be playing on Sept. 11.  The crowd cheered for the enlistees but when they got to the part of the oath where they had to pledge to “obey the orders of the President of the United States,” the crowd erupted in boos and jeers.  The move came as some soccer fans are still angry that Major League Soccer changed its code of conduct to ban any kind of political signs at games. Although the National Women’s Soccer League doesn’t have a similar blanket prohibition, the Thorns has enforced the ban on political signs this season. Some took to social media to complain that including a military swearing-in ceremony as part of a game was a political act and contradicts the current prohibitions.  cancelled my Timbers season ticket.    like, yeah, a lot going on with the league etc but last night’s military fetishization at the Thorns match was the last straw.    if you’re gonna give anyone props on 9/11 it should be first responders. get it together, PTFC.#RCTID — dodgy nova (@DodgyNova) September 12, 2019


sputnik--2019-01-03--116th US Congress Swearing-in Ceremony

116th US Congress Swearing-in Ceremony

The 116th US Congress is currently swearing in with a newly elected Democratic majority in the House of Representatives. The ceremony comes amid a partial Federal government shutdown that has been in effect since December 22 after Democratic lawmakers refused to meet President Donald Trump's demand for $5 billion to build the controversial wall on the US-Mexico border.


sputnik--2019-05-28--Pakistani Officials Not Invited to Modis Swearing-in Ceremony - Source

Pakistani Officials Not Invited to Modi’s Swearing-in Ceremony - Source

"The leaders of the BIMSTEC [Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation] member states — Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand and Bhutan — have been invited for the upcoming oath-taking ceremony. Representatives of Pakistan will not attend the event," the source stated.  According to the source, the leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius were also invited to the ceremony.  Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan congratulated Modi on his win shortly after the results were released, saying that he looked forward "to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity" in South Asia.  India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed rivals, have never been close allies throughout their history. Tensions in the Kashmir region, an area that is disputed by both countries, escalated in February when the Indian Air Force carried out an airstrike against what it claimed to be a camp belonging to the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist group, located on the Pakistani side of Kashmir, in retaliation for an attack on an Indian paramilitary convoy earlier that month.


unian--2019-05-19--Zelenskys press service announces agenda of official events after swearing-in ceremony

Zelensky's press service announces agenda of official events after swearing-in ceremony

In the afternoon, the new president will be meeting with foreign guests.  The press service of Ukraine's President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the agenda of official events on May 20 on the occasion of his entry into the presidency.  According to the agenda, from 10:00 to 11:00 Kyiv time, Zelensky will be taking part in an official meeting of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, on taking the oath to the Ukrainian people.  From 11:05 to 11:20, Zelensky will be participating in the introduction of the commanders of the divisions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and in the ceremony of raising the national flag of Ukraine.  "From 11:20 to 11:50, Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska will be welcoming heads of foreign delegations in Kyiv's Mariinsky Palace," the agenda says.  From 12:00 to 13:30, Zelensky will be receiving heads of foreign delegations on the occasion of his presidency.  From 14:30 to 17:00, Zelensky is scheduled to have bilateral meetings with heads of foreign delegations at the Presidential Administration's building.


unian--2019-05-20--Volodymyr Zelenskys swearing-in ceremony

Volodymyr Zelensky's swearing-in ceremony

The official event is taking place in Ukraine's parliament.  The official swearing-in ceremony of Ukraine's sixth president Volodymyr Zelensky has started on Monday, May 20.  The newly elected president is taking the oath of allegiance to the Ukrainian people during the ceremonial meeting in parliament.


tass--2019-05-04--Ukraines Verkhovna Rada to appoint inauguration date on May 14 - Zelensky

Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada to appoint inauguration date on May 14 - Zelensky

### Vladimir Zelensky  © Petr Sivkov/TASS  KIEV, May 4. /TASS/. The date for the inauguration of Ukraine’s new president will be appointed by the Verkhovna Rada, or national parliament, on May 14, President-elect Vladimir Zelensky said on Saturday.  "The inauguration date will be appointed at a Verkhovna Rada session on May 14," he told reporters after his meeting with the Verkhovna Rada speaker, leaders of parliamentary factions and lawmakers’ groups. "I suggested it be done on May 19".  The final results of the presidential polls in Ukraine were announced by the Central Election Commission on April 30. The race was won by Vladimir Zelensky who scored 73.22% of the vote in the runoff election, while incumbent president, Pyotr Poroshenko won 24.45% The voting results were published in the official newspaper Pravitelsvenny Kuryer (Government Courier) on May 3. The inaugurations ceremony is to be appointed within 30 days from that day, or before June 2.  In other media


tass--2019-05-04--Zelensky says he will offer parliament to hold inauguration May 19

### Vladimir Zelensky  © Petr Sivkov/TASS  KIEV, May 4. /TASS/. Ukraine’s president-elect Vladimir Zelensky has said he will offer the country’s Verkhovna Rada (parliament) to hold his inauguration ceremony on May 19. He was talking to reporters on Saturday ahead of his meeting with the Verkhovna Rada speaker, leaders of parliamentary factions and lawmakers’ groups.  "At the meeting, we will suggest [holding the inauguration] on May 19, and then we’ll see," Zelensky said without explaining why that date was chosen.  He added that the inauguration date will be the key issue at the meeting. "We will discuss other issues too," Zelensky noted.  In accordance with Ukraine’s Constitution, the president should take office within 30 days after the official publication of the election results. The results of the presidential election were made public on Friday, May 3. In this case, the president-elect must take the oath of office by June 2 (inclusive).  In other media


thetelegraph--2019-01-09--World leaders to skip Maduro inauguration amid possible further EU sanctions on sham presidency

World leaders to skip Maduro inauguration amid possible further EU sanctions on 'sham presidency'

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro will be sworn-in for a second, six-year term on Thursday despite his country’s continued economic spiral that has sparked the region’s worst ever migration crisis.  Maduro’s new term will bring further international presssure on Caracas as dozens of countries have called his May re-election fraudulent and pledged not to recognise his new government.  The European Union is expected to release a strongly worded warning hinting that further EU sanctions could be levied on the country, should the president continue to flout human rights and the rule of law.  Guy Verhofstadt, the influential MEP and leader of the liberals in the European Parliament, told the Telegraph, “The EU should no longer recognise the legality or legitimacy of Nicolas Maduro’s sham presidency.”  The lack of international recognition will be apparent from the lack of foreign visitors inauguration ceremony for Maduro, due to be held at 10 am outside the Supreme Court building. Only Cuba and Bolivia have confirmed their presidents will attend, while a handful of other countries will send diplomats.  Plans to organize a mass boycott of the investiture ceremony by all 28 EU ambassadors to Venezuela appeared to have fallen foul of divisions in the bloc, however.


unian--2019-05-14--Ukraines President-elect Zelensky unhappy with delay in setting his inauguration date

Ukraine's President-elect Zelensky unhappy with delay in setting his inauguration date

Zelensky asked lawmakers to schedule the official event for May 19.  Ukraine's President-elect Zelensky is unhappy with Ukraine's parliament because of its failure to decide on his inauguration date on time, accusing the parliament's speaker of deceit.  "The acronym for the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is the VRU [stands for a 'lie' in Russian]. VRU is their middle name," Zelensky wrote on Facebook on May 14 when lawmakers were expected to vote on the inauguration date.  Zelensky also quoted Parliament Speaker Andriy Parubiy, who reportedly said: "We promise you that the inauguration date will be known on May 14 for sure."  "Remember these parliamentarians' names. And draw conclusions for the next parliament elections [in October 2019]. We'll draw them together!" Zelensky added.  As of May 14, eight draft resolutions had been registered in parliament with different dates for the newly elected president's swearing-in ceremony. Yet, one of them was withdrawn. They propose different dates, namely May 17, May 19, May 20, May 26, and May 28 for the event.  The parliament's committee for procedures and regulations will consider the draft resolutions on Wednesday, May 15, and should the committee take a positive decision, the documents will be put to the vote on Thursday, May 16.  Zelensky asked lawmakers to schedule the official event for May 19.


breitbart--2019-08-22--Donald Trump Awards Medal of Freedom to Boston Celtics Legend Bob Cousy

The president awarded the medal in the Oval Office of the White House surrounded by nearly two dozen family and friends.  A point guard for the Boston Celtics, Cousy helped win six NBA championships in seven years from 1957-62.  “You’re one of the all-time greats in the history of sports — not just basketball — and an inspiration to us all,” Trump said. “And today, America honors and celebrates everything that you have achieved.”  Trump spoke at length about Cousy’s legendary performance in the game of basketball and his contributions to his community outside of the court.  “If I’d known I was going to be eulogized I would probably have done the only decent thing and died,” Cousy joked.   Cousy thanked Trump for the honor, calling him “the most extraordinary president in my lifetime.”  West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin attended the ceremony with his wife and Fox News reporter Ed Henry.  Speaking about his love for his family, Cousy started choking up with tears.  “That’s why you shouldn’t invite old men to the White House. They get emotional.” Cousy said.  Trump credited Manchin for reaching out to him about Cousy, after learning that Cousy would be honored to receive the award.  Cousy, now 91, admitted in a recent interview that he did not vote for President Trump or Hillary Clinton, but rather Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson. But he said that would change in 2020.  “This President will definitely have my vote in 2020,” he said. “I simply feel, without getting into the politics of it at all, like many Americans — I agree with some of the things he’s done and disagree with others.”


breitbart--2019-09-05--Donald Trump Awards Medal of Freedom to LA Lakers Legend Jerry West

Donald Trump Awards Medal of Freedom to L.A. Lakers Legend Jerry West

Born in West Virginia, West played at West Virginia University before playing for the Lakers in Los Angeles. West played 14 seasons in the NBA for the Lakers, making the all-star team every year.  “In the years that followed, he was to become a legend and made plays that will be remembered forever,” Trump said. “I know many of them.”  Trump recalled when West rallied his team in Game 3 of the NBA finals in 1962 back to tie the game and scored right before the end of the game, earning the nickname “Mr. Clutch.”  After his career as a player, he became a legendary general manager for the Lakers during their triumphant domination of the sport in the 1980-2000s.  “Jerry is one of the greatest negotiators, managers, and executives in the history of the NBA,” Trump said. He also highlighted West’s charitable efforts in Los Angeles and West Virginia and his work with veterans.  He is also nicknamed as “The Logo,” as his silhouette is still featured in the NBA logo today.  West was accompanied at the Oval Office ceremony with members of his family and one close friend from West Virginia University. Chris Wallace, the Chief Communications Officer for the Los Angeles Clippers also attended.  “I was a dreamer,” he said, addressing the group. “My family didn’t have much, but we had a clear view of the Appalachian Mountains. And I’ve had several on our front porch and wonder if I ever make it to the top of that mountain. Will I see on the other side? Well, I did make it to the other side. My dreams have come true.”  West Virginia officials Governor Jim Justice and Sen. Joe Manchin also joined the president for the ceremony.


breitbart--2019-09-16--Enter Sandman Donald Trump Awards Yankees Legend Mariano Rivera Medal of Freedom

'Enter Sandman' — Donald Trump Awards Yankees Legend Mariano Rivera Medal of Freedom

Rivera entered the White House East Room with Trump for the ceremony to Metallica’s “Enter Sandman,” the same song that he used as a walkup song during his career with the Yankees.  “Game after game, when his entrance song ‘Enter Sandman’ filled the arena, fans went wild knowing that the game was all but over,” Trump said. “His dominance on the mound mesmerized fans, teammates, and, unfortunately for them, it mesmerized the competitors.”   Trump said that First Lady Melania Trump asked him why the song was so important to Rivera’s legacy.  “Because he put the batter to sleep,” Trump recalled telling her. “’The Sandman’ A lot of people don’t know that, but the Yankee fans know that.”  Rivera is a five-time world series champion and is the greatest relief pitcher in the history of the sport.  He was elected by the first-ever unanimous vote into the National Baseball Hall of fame in July 2019.  Trump also referred to Rivera’s prominent work for American communities through his charitable foundation inspired by his Christian faith.  “Throughout Marino’s incredible career, he remained a humble man guided by a deep Christian faith that inspires everyone around him,” Trump said.  “All I did was try to be the best and try to do the best for America,” he said.  Born in Panama, Rivera told a story about his effort to learn English after coming to America to play baseball.  “By the end of the year, I was able to communicate with my manager and my teammates and I was the happiest man in baseball,” he said, adding that as immigrants, “learning Engish is the first thing we can do.”


breitbart--2019-09-16--Watch Live Donald Trump Presents Medal of Freedom to Yankees Pitcher Mariano Rivera

Watch Live: Donald Trump Presents Medal of Freedom to Yankees Pitcher Mariano Rivera

The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States.  The hall of fame baseball player will be awarded the medal during a 2:00 p.m. Eastern ceremony at the White House.


breitbart--2019-11-18--Trump to Award Jon Voight with National Medal of Arts

President Donald Trump will award the Oscar-winning actor Jon Voight with the National Medal of Arts, the White House announced on Sunday.  In a statement, the White House confirmed that Jon Voight, who is one of Trump’s few prominent Hollywood supporters, will be honored at a ceremony later this week for his “exceptional capacity as an actor to portray deeply complex characters.”  “Captivating audiences, he has given us insights into the richness of the human mind and heart,” the statement read.  Voight, who won the Academy Award for best actor in 1978 for his role as veteran Luke Martin in Coming Home, is a fervent supporter of the president. Earlier this year, the star declared President Trump the “greatest president since Abraham Lincoln.”  “Our country is stronger, safer and with more jobs, because our president has made his every move correct,” he said Voight, who is the father of actress Angelina Jolie. “Don’t be fooled by the political left because we are the people of this nation that is witnessing triumph.”  In July, Voight went viral as he was captured on camera wiping the rain off of chairs reserved for Gold Star family members who were set to attend President Trump’s Salute to America event on Independence Day.  Other individuals to be recognized on Thursday include bluegrass-country singer Allison Krauss, philanthropist Sharon Percy Rockefeller, and The Musicians of the United States Military.  “From concert halls to warzones, these extraordinary patriots have inspired and uplifted their fellow Americans over generations with their incredible courage and breathtaking musical talent,” the statement says of the military musicians.


cbsnews--2019-10-08--Trump awards Medal of Freedom to Ed Meese

President Trump awarded the Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors, to former Reagan-era Attorney General Edwin Meese on Tuesday.  Meese, 87, is now widely thought of as a leader of the Reagan-era conservative movement. But he also left the administration in the face of ethical concerns. He was accused of "blindness to the abuse of the position" as attorney general in a report authored by former Watergate prosecutor Archibald Cox.  During the ceremony, Mr. Trump spoke about Meese's long list of roles in state and federal civil service. At one point, the president joked that Meese's contentious and lengthy confirmation process to be attorney general sounded like "what we go through," referring to his own administration.  After receiving the award, Meese thanked all of those in attendance and congratulated Attorney General William Barr for the work he is doing.  In a statement issued by the Heritage Foundation, where he is a fellow emeritus, Meese said he's grateful for the opportunity.  "I am greatly honored to receive such recognition from President Trump," Meese said in a statement. "For many years, I had the privilege of serving the country under President Ronald Reagan. During that time and throughout my life and career, my aim has been to remain committed to the Constitution, the rule of law and the conservative American values that have made America 'the shining city upon a hill.'"  The award comes as Mr. Trump faces a slew of questions over his abrupt decision to withdraw troops from northern Syria, and over the ongoing impeachment inquiry over his call with Ukraine's president.


dailymail--2019-05-07--Trump gives Tiger Woods Medal of Freedom calls golfer great person

Trump gives Tiger Woods Medal of Freedom, calls golfer 'great person'

President Donald Trump awarded Masters champion and golfing buddy Tiger Woods the Medal of Freedom on Monday evening in a Rose Garden ceremony the athlete's new girlfriend also attended.  The president said that Woods, 43, is 'one of the greatest athletes in the history of sports' and has inspired people worldwide with his barrier-breaking victories, capped by a comeback at this year's tournament.  'He's also a great person. He's a great guy,' Trump declared. 'He inspired millions of young Americans with his thrilling wire-to-wire victories. Tiger Woods is a global symbol of american excellence, devotion, and drive.'  The first African-American to win the Masters and the youngest golfer to take the title, Woods won his first major tournament in 11 years in April after suffering severe injuries that threatened to end his career forever.  Woods cried at the White House as he talked about his late father and spoke about his 'amazing' comeback this year and the'unbelievable experience' of winning the award in front his mother, children, caddy, girlfriend Erica Herman, the president and first lady Melania Trump.  'You've seen the good and the bad, the highs and the lows, and I would not be in this position without all your help,' he told his family. 'I've battled, I try to hang in there, and I've tried to come back and play the great game of golf again.'  The citation for the award said that Woods was being honored for the 5 Masters tournament's he's won, beginning in 1997 when he became the first black man and the youngest golfer ever to clinch the title. He won again in 2019, becoming the second-oldest champ.  President Trump also noted that Woods has 81 PGA tour victories under his belt - one victory behind the all-time record.  Trump also had another statistic he wanted to point out:  he said that Woods' victory in April was 'record-setting ratings' for a Masters tournament.  'We are in the presence of a true legend, an extraordinary athlete who has transformed golf and achieved new levels of dominance,' he said.  He hailed Woods, whom he's relied on to boost his own popularity throughout his own career, as an entrepreneur and and philanthropist, as well as an athlete.  'That's how I originally met Tiger,' the former real estate mogul acknowledged in the Rose Garden on Monday evening.  After Woods' first Masters victory in '97, he celebrated at Trump's Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City. The men have been business partners since 2014, when they opened the Tiger Woods Villa at the future president's golf club in Doral, Florida.  Prior to the deal, the golfer took a break from the sport after tearing his ACL in 2008, admitting to infidelity in 2009 and divorcing his wife and mother of his children, Swedish model Elin Nordegren, the following year, in 2010.  He was arrested for drunk driving in 2017, when Florida law enforcement officers found five types of drugs in his system. He said he'd over medicated in response to back pain that caused him to quit competing two years earlier.  Woods was back on the course a month later in New Jersey, playing the Presidents Cup at Liberty National Golf Club, where he ran into his old friend who'd become president, Donald Trump.  Trump hinted at the controversies at Monday's ceremony, as he recalled Woods' unexpected victory in the 2008 U.S. Open, despite having two leg fractures and a torn ACL.  'He's got a great memory, this guy. And he remembers the good stuff. Not the bad. We don't want to - we just, what you did there was amazing,' the president said, recounting the blow-by-blow of the victory.  The president said that Woods 'fought through the terrible pain, and he fought all the way back to the summit of golf' to win the PGA championship a decade later.  Last month, Woods shocked the world with 'one of the most incredible comebacks that golf or any sport as ever seen,' winning the Masters, Trump recalled on Monday.  'Tiger was back on top and won his first major in 11 years, and that was some major, with record-setting television,' he said.  Trump said he'd present the golfer with the Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony shortly after the surprise victory.  Trump said Monday that Woods is known for 'pushing boundaries, defying limits and always striving for greatness' in a way that embodies the American spirit.  'Tiger, we are inspired by everything you have become and attained, the job you have done is incredible: your spectacular achievements on the golf course, your triumph over physical adversity, and your relentless will to win, win, win,' he said.  He said Woods is someone 'whose tenacity, willpower and unrelenting drive' is an inspiration to everyone.  'Congratulations again on your amazing comeback and your amazing life,' he told his friend. 'And for giving sports fans everywhere a lifetime of memories. We can't wait to see what's next Tiger. It's going to be good. We know that, it's going to be good, because there are no winners like you.'  Woods noted that Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Charlie Sifford had received the award before him. President George W. Bush honored the first two golfers and President Barack Obama gave the Medal of Freedom to the latter.  Sifford was a mentor to Woods, who said in his speech that he thought of the late golfer as a grandfather. He named his son Charlie after the legendary athlete.  'So to have been chosen as the next golfer, after Charlie, is truly remarkable. So thank you, again, and thank you Mr. President,' he told Trump, before shaking his hand and posing for photos with the first couple and his family, including his Herman.  Woods took to Instagram after the ceremony and wrote: 'It’s an incredible privilege to be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Considering the recipients, history, and what this means to me and my family, it’s also very humbling. Thank you all for your support and I hope this inspires others to never give up on their dreams.'  Woods is a frequent golf partner of Trump's. So is Nicklaus. Both professionals play with the billionaire at his Florida properties.  The next professional tournament that Woods will play the Zozo Championship in Japan. Held at Accordia Golf Chiba Narashino Country Club, the tournament takes place roughly 50 miles outside of Tokyo. It's at the end of October.  He's also playing the Presidents Cup at the Royal Melbourne in Australia from Dec. 12-15, a tournament he's captaining on behalf of the United States.  Trump and past American presidents has been invited to attend the golf tournament.