15 Citizens Honoured in St James on Heroes Day

Fifteen individuals were recognised by the St. James Municipal Corporation on Monday (Oct.16) for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of the parish in various fields.

Ten persons were bestowed with the esteemed Sam Sharpe Awards, while five were honored with the Mayor’s Special Awards at the National Heroes Day ceremony held at Sam Sharpe Square in Montego Bay.

The function was held in collaboration with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC).

Recipients of the Sam Sharpe Awards are Albert Ferguson, for contribution to Journalism; Gina Haughton, Sports; Collette Barnes, Education; Allen Webster, Agriculture; and Dr. Carlene Grant-Davis for exemplary work in the field of Health.

Additionally, Wayne Cummings was awarded for outstanding contribution to Tourism; Pastor Bernard Salmon, Community Service; Inspector Delroy Harriot, National Security; Dr. Alloi Allen, Industry and Commerce; and Singer Kenneth “Lord Laro” Lara for contribution to Arts and Culture.

The Mayor’s 2023 Special Awards went to Fitzgerald Roach for Community Service; Gavin Edmond, Education; and Marcel Biggs, Kenroy Wright and Desrick Myers, who were recognised for their heroic acts in rescuing two boys who were swept away by flood waters in June 2023.

In his address, Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon congratulated the award recipients for their unwavering commitment to nation-building and their notable role in propelling the parish’s progress.

“Let us use this Heritage Week to renew our vows that before God and all mankind, we will do what is necessary to ensure that Jamaica may increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity. Our awardees have done this and as a result, my congratulations are in order,” he said.

Councillor Vernon called on all Jamaicans to join forces in preserving and enriching the nation’s heritage and safeguarding the hard-earned legacy of the National Heroes.

Highlighting the remarkable achievements of Jamaica in recent years, including a historic low unemployment rate and debt-to-GDP ratio, alongside a commendable credit rating, he said that the successes “transcend heritage into a sustainable future.”

The Deputy Mayor further underscored the vital roles played by various sectors in the country’s progress, including domestic workers, educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, transportation providers, and sanitation workers.

“Whether you work from eight to four or nine to five, or you do the graveyard shift, you all played a role in protecting our heritage,” Councillor Vernon said.

“Our heroes…are smiling… because their sacrifices are being transformed into productivity, into success and into prosperity,” he added.