Ceremony in LFP, as Peruvian government dedicates a bust of their national hero to the City

Peruvian dancers perform in LFP. Photo by Jerry Pickard

On Friday, October 29, 2011, the government of Peru formally presented a bust of Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario to the City of Lake Forest Park.

Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario was a renowned Peruvian naval officer and hero of the battle of Angamos during the War of the Pacific (1879-1884). He was known as 'El caballero de los mares', or 'Gentleman of the Seas' for his chivalry in battle, and is a Peruvian national hero.

The ceremony was held in Animal Acres Park with presentation of the gift to the city by Sr. Miguel Angel Velásquez Garcia, Consul General A.H. of Peru in Seattle. The consulate is located in Lake Forest Park. The gift was in honor of the 50th anniversary of Lake Forest Park.

Peruvian dancers. Photo by Jerry Pickard

Peruvian dancers from the Academia de Danzas Peruanas performed for the attendees.

The Navy Band. Photo by Jerry Pickard

The United States Navy Band, Navy Region Northwest, played the national anthems of both countries.

Frank Michiels.  Photo by Jerry Pickard

Frank Michiels, President of the Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park opened the ceremonies.

State Rep Luis Moscoso and Sr. Miguel Angel Velásquez Garcia. Photo by Jerry Pickard

Sr. Miguel Angel Velásquez Garcia, Consul General A.H. of Peru in Seattle, made the formal presentation.

Commander Luis Nicolás Osorio Bromberg. Photo by Jerry Pickard

The Dedication Speech was made by Peruvian Naval Commander Luis Nicolás Osorio Bromberg,

Mayor Dave Hutchinson. Photo by Jerry Pickard

Mayor David Hutchinson accepted the gift on behalf of the City of Lake Forest Park.

Photo by Jerry Pickard

The formal cutting of the ribbon.

Photo by Jerry Pickard

Peruvian dignitaries pay respect to their national hero.

Photo by Jerry Pickard

Mayor David Hutchinson, Deputy Mayor Dwight Thompson, and Police Chief Dennis Peterson.

Guests included State Reps Ruth Kagi and Cindy Ryu, and Mayor David Baker of Kenmore.

Photo by Jerry Pickard.

Various Civic and Official Organizations presented floral arrangements.

Photo by Jerry Pickard.

Deputy Mayor Dwight Thompson, State Rep. Ruth Kagi, Mayor Dave Hutchinson, Sr. Miguel Angel Velásquez Garcia. 

October 29, 2011 was officially proclaimed as Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario in the City of Lake Forest Park.