In a significant ceremony held at the National Heroes Park on Saturday, September 16, 2023, Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, paid tribute to the five National Heroes of St. Kitts and Nevis. National Heroes Day was celebrated in their honor.
Dr. Drew acknowledged the exceptional contributions of these distinguished sons of the soil who have achieved the esteemed status of National Heroes. He highlighted the Late Right Excellent Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw as a true embodiment of the indomitable spirit of the nation. Sir Bradshaw, hailing from humble beginnings in St. Paul’s, emerged as a leader who guided the nation.
Furthermore, Dr. Drew recognized the Late Right Excellent Sir Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell, who tirelessly advocated for the rights of the people, and the Late Right Excellent Sir Joseph Nathaniel France, a champion of social justice and healthcare. Sir France’s dedication resulted in the naming of the general hospital in his honor.
The Prime Minister also shed light on the Late Right Excellent Sir Simeon Daniel, the first Premier of Nevis and the nation’s fourth National Hero. His efforts significantly improved the lives of Nevisians and emphasized the importance of local leadership. Lastly, Dr. Drew acknowledged the Right Excellent and Right Honourable Sir Kennedy Alphonse Simmonds, the Federation’s fifth and only living National Hero. Sir Simmonds served as the first Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s governance and policies during its formative years.
Dr. Drew emphasized that the legacies of these heroes serve as a powerful reminder that dedication knows no boundaries. They inspire us to view failures not as setbacks, but as opportunities for sustainable growth, maturity, and resilience. Drawing from their unwavering commitment, determination, and unyielding pursuit of positive change, the Prime Minister concluded by asserting that, like these heroes, we too have the ability to transform our lives and our nation.