Westmoreland Awards 20 on National Heroes Day

Twenty residents of Westmoreland, including eight employees of the municipal corporation, have been awarded for outstanding contribution to the development of the parish.

They were recognised during the parish’s Heroes Day Salute and Awards Ceremony held at Norman Square in Savanna-la-Mar on National Heroes Day, Monday (Oct. 19).

Twelve residents were awarded for service in the fields of education, agriculture, public service, community development, health, culture and religion, while the eight municipal corporation employees were honoured for long service.

Mayor of Savanna-la-Mar, Councillor Danree Delancy, commended the award recipients, stating that their dedication to service is reminiscent of the spirit of Jamaica’s National Heroes.

He noted that, as Jamaicans celebrate the contributions of the island’s National Heroes, it is just as important to recognise individuals who, through their commitment and service, “continue to inspire hope, strengthen communities and contribute to the development of our country.”

“While their contributions differ, the award recipients are united by a common purpose; a genuine desire to serve others and to leave a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those around them,” he said.

He added that through their contributions,  they have helped to strengthen communities, support livelihoods, preserve cultural traditions and improve the wellbeing of residents across the parish.

Councillor Delancy underscored the significance of recognising individuals who have dedicated years of service to the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation.

The eight employees, drawn from five departments, have each served the corporation for more than 25 years, with some up to 32 years.

“Their loyalty, professionalism, hard work and institutional knowledge have helped to support the corporation’s operations and its continued delivery of services,” Councillor Delancy  said.

He noted that the honourees demonstrate that meaningful contribution to society does not require extraordinary achievements.

“Sometimes, it is demonstrated through years of pride, service, countless acts of kindness, the courage to lead, the willingness to sacrifice and the determination to keep going even when the work is difficult and the recognition is limited or absent,” he said.

“Our awardees have shown us that true greatness is measured not only by what we achieve for ourselves, but also by what we contribute to the lives of others,” he added.

The Westmoreland Heroes Day Salute and Awards Ceremony was hosted by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) in partnership with the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation.