16 Individuals awarded on National Heroes Day, PM Terrance Drew called recipients “unsung heroes”

The Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew acknowledged distinguished nationals of St Kitts and Nevis who were awarded on the National Heroes Day for their dedication, service, and invaluable contributions to the development of the Federation. The day was celebrated on 16^th September 2024 in order to pay heartfelt tribute to all those heroes who have contributed to the progress of the nation.

While extending congratulations, PM Terrance Drew stated that it is necessary to recognize countless unsung heroes who walk among them and contribute to the strength and resilience of the nation.

PM Terrance Drew asserted that this unsung heroism lies on the teachers who nurture young minds, healthcare workers who provide care and comfort, the community leaders who bring people together and the everyday citizen who plays a huge role in strengthening the fabric of the society through their actions.

He further continued to say that these unsung heroes may not have statues or monuments in their own, but their contributions are no less significant. He added that these people embody the spirit of the national heroes, showing that heroism is not confined to the pages of history, but is alive and well in the communities.

The nationals who were recognized with the Companion of the Star of Merit in recognition of their meritorious service to the nation include,

1. Conrad Kelly – Agriculture
2. David Huggins – Business Entrepreneurship
3. Edrice Lewis-Viechweg – Education (Designer of National Flag)
4. Elsie Liburd-Brandy – Education
5. Hanzel Manners – Banking and Community Development
6. Oliver Spencer – Fishing Industry
7. Orville ‘Sailor’ Thompson – Sports
8. Pearletta Lanns – Legal and Judicial Services
9. Roslyn Hazelle – Women’s Empowerment
10. Rupert Herbert – Education and Public Service
11. Desmond Hobson Tyson Sr. – Community Service and Activism

The individuals who were acknowledged with the Medal of Honour for their outstanding and meritorious service to the Nation include,

1. Allison Rouse – Law Enforcement
2. Jasmin ‘Jazzy D’ Clarke-Thomas – Broadcasting
3. 4 Orvis Mills – Early Childhood Education and Community Activism
4. Patricia Richards-Leader – Pioneering Business
5. Viola Manning – Nursing

The National Heroes Day was a grand celebration of reflecting on the achievements, sacrifices and contributions of five distinguished sons of the soil who attained the esteemed status of National Heroes. Those heroes include, Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell, the Right Joseph Nathaniel France, Simeon Daniel and Kennedy Alphonse Simmonds.

He added that all these national heroes have played a pivotal role in shaping the Federation.

PM Terrance Drew called Robert Lewellen Bracher, the father of independence who led with courage and vision, securing the rights and freedoms that they are cherishing today. He addressed Joseph Nathaniel Franz, a champion of social justice and health care who dedicated his life to improving the well-being of the people of the Federation.

PM Drew called Simeon Daniel, the First Premier of Nevis, a beacon of leadership and camaraderie who worked tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard and needs were met in order to foster a spirit of cooperation that continues to define the Federation.

While shedding light on the only living national hero, Kennedy Alphonse Simmonds, PM Terrance Drew stated that he has guided the nation with his wisdom and integrity. He also talked about Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell and stated that his role as a Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, Trade, Development Industry and Tourism had transformed nation into a manufacturing and an industrial powerhouse in the Leeward Islands and introduced tourism as a major economic department.

PM Terrance Drew asked all the citizens of the country to let the legacy of the national heroes inspire them to forge ahead with determination and hope and navigate the challenges of today and build better and prosperous future of St Kitts and Nevis.