Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 16, 2019 (SKNIS): During a ceremony held at National Heroes’ Park in observance of National Heroes Day on September 16, several unsung heroes were honoured for their contribution to nation building.
The National Honours Act established a trio of merit-based awards, which includes the Medal of Honour, the Companion of the Star of Merit, and the Order of National Hero.
This year’s recipients of the Companion of the Star of Merit include Dr Calvin Hazel – for Spiritual Development and Advancement of our People; Bishop Joseph Henville – for Religion and Community Development; Mr Erstein Edwards – for Public Service and Diplomacy; Mr Augustine Merchant – for Agricultural Development in Service to the Nation, and Mr Bruce Skerritt – for Music locally, regionally and internationally.
The Companion of the Star of Merit went to Mrs Marilyn Bertie Guishard – for Education and Religion; Mr Lester Blackett – for Sports; Mrs Yvette Slack – for Pre-School Education and Community Activism; Mr Antonio Liburd – for Culture; Mr Evered (Webbo) Herbert – for Broadcasting; Mrs Arabella Nisbett – for Farming; Mrs Earlene Maynard – for Education; Mr Anthony Evelyn – for Ongoing Efforts to Enhance the Cause of Building Contractors; Ms Julietta Martin – for Performing Arts (Dance); Mrs Alice Swanston – for Education and Community Outreach; Mr Oswald Elliott – for Education; and Mr Michael (Mic Heyliger) Stokes – for Musical Production and Artistry.
“Heroes are important, whether they are political or religious leaders, entertainers, or athletes,” said Prime Minister, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, during the ceremony. “They serve a purpose in our society and they help give people hope and provide examples for success.”
He added “Through the story of their successes (and indeed their failures too) other people can understand their talents and their will to succeed. Perhaps nothing is more powerful than the power to inspire.”