Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 16, 2024 (SKNIS): The annual National Heroes Day observance in St. Kitts and Nevis on September 16, provides an opportunity for the nation to honour the contributions of the five giants who lead the transformation of the twin-island Federation. These men were the Late Right Excellencies Sir Robert L. Bradshaw, Sir C. A. Paul Southwell, Sir Joseph N. France and Sir Simeon Daniel as well as the Right Excellent and the Right Honourable Sir Kennedy A. Simmonds. However, the day is also marked with a tinge of anticipation as the newest members of the National Honours Awards are revealed.
The 2024 recipients of the Companion of the Star of Merit and the Medal of Honour were announced by Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew during his National Heroes Day Message.
Awarded for long and meritorious service, or for loyal and devoted service to the Nation, the Companion of the Star of Merit is bestowed upon: Conrad Kelly for Agriculture; David Huggins for Business Entrepreneurship; Desmond Hobson Tyson Sr. for Community Service and Activism; Edrice Lewis-Viechweg for Education (Designer of National Flag), Elsie Liburd-Brandy for Education, and Hanzel Manners for Banking and Community Development. Also receiving the prestigious award were Oliver Spencer for Fishing Industry; Orville ‘Sailor’ Thompson for Sports, Pearletta Lanns for Legal and Judicial Services; Rosalyn Hazelle for Women’s Empowerment, and Rupert Herbert for Education and Public Service.
Awarded for outstanding and meritorious service to the Nation, the Medal of Honour is bestowed upon: Allison Rouse for Law Enforcement; Jasmin ‘Jazzy D’ Clarke-Thomas for Broadcasting; Orvis Mills for Early Childhood Education and Community Activism; Patricia Richards-Leader for Pioneering Business, and Viola Manning for Nursing.
In the national address, Prime Minister Dr. Drew also paid tribute to the many unsung heroes in society.
“They are the teachers who nurture young minds, the healthcare workers who provide care and comfort, the community leaders who bring people together, and the everyday citizens who, through their actions, strengthen the fabric of our society,” he said.
The prime minister noted that St. Kitts and Nevis stands at a crossroads with the potential for persons to shape a bright and prosperous future shaped by the sacrifices of our elders.
Together, as one people, proud and strong, we can achieve this” he emphasised.
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