No matter how one tries to accentuate the positive, there's only one superlative way to describe the Bermuda 2009 Tattoo, and that is, it was most spectacular!

It boggles the mind thinking about the amount of planning and attention to detail that went into compacting a cast of 400 from near and far into the Keep Yard at the Maritime Museum for a two-hour variety show that went off without a hitch. It may not seem like a logistical accomplishment get to Bermuda the Military Band of the Azores, or the Governor General's Foot Guards & the Regimental Pipes and Drums of the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa; or from Bridgetown the Royal Barbados Police Band.

Probably it was no problem getting to Bermuda from London or Scotland The Band of the Scots Guard & Pipes and Drums of the 1st Battalion Scots Guard; and likewise the United States Silent Drill Team of the 3rd US Infantry Regiment (the Old Guard) from wherever they were stationed.

But what seemed so flawless and most commendable was getting those performers and their equipment to the Dockyard from Warwick Camp, then, taking up their positions, meshing so smoothly, perfectly with the Band and Corp of the Bermuda Regiment Band, the United Dance Production group under Suzette Harvey and choreographed by Eric Bean. And for even greater variety with the vocal renditions of Town Crier Ed Christopher and soprano Toni Robinson.

Also there was the massing of all the above for a grand finale with the boarding of Lloyd Matthews and Sidney Sessions on percussion all leading up to the General Salute, Last Post and March Out to a spectacular fireworks display.

As we said before it was simply fantastic, colourful, most spectacular!

And a Great credit to the men and women of the Bermuda Regiment, their families, the Police, transportation and other non military services, the Director of the Maritime Museum , Dr. Edward Harris and his staff, an army of civilian volunteers and all the others involved.