Happy Independence Day to my American friends!
This morning I attended the unveiling of a statue of the late great President Ronald Reagan outside the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square.
I arrived early and got a good position from which to photograph. I managed to capture Secretary Condoleeza Rice, our Foreign Secretary, William Hague, California Senator Kevin McCarthy, our Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne, and Peggy Noonan - former speechwriter to President Reagan (I have a couple of her books).
Also present was Robert Tuttle, former Ambassador to the UK, our Defence Secretary Liam Fox, and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Iain Duncan Smith.
President Reagan was and is a hero of mine, having changed the world for the better during my lifetime, and thanks to his efforts, more people are free today than once were. He continues to inspire leaders in both America and around the world, and this statue was a most fitting way to celebrate not only the centennial year of his birth but also Independence Day.
Former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice eulogises President Reagan.
The American National Anthem is played
Foreign Secretary William Hague speaks.
A moment of silent prayer in remembrance of the Gipper.
Senator Kevin McCarthy of California (R) makes a point about freedom.
Former speechwriter to President Reagan Peggy Noonan casts a disapproving eye over me.
William Hague catches sight of me.
Chancellor Of The Exchequer George Osborne.
The unveiling of the statue of President Reagan.
From left to right: Dr Liam Fox (Defence Secretary), Eric Pickles (Conservative Party chairman), Alan Duncan (Minister for International Development), Condoleeza Rice, Chancellor George Osborne, Foreign Secretary William Hague, Iain Duncan Smith (Secretary Of State for Work And Pensions).
Peggy Noonan blows a kiss.
