Citizens Recognised with National Honours as St Kitts and Nevis Marks 42 Years of Independence

As the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis celebrated its 42nd Anniversary of Independence under the theme “Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future in View: Independence 42”, sixteen outstanding citizens were officially recognised for their service to the nation.

During his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance Drew praised the honourees as proof that heroism is alive in the present, not just confined to the past. He said their contributions in education, health, sports, business, law, and community service embody the sacrifice and vision needed to secure a sustainable future.

“Let our refrain be simple and strong. We are one Federation, travelling the road of perpetual progress,” Dr Drew declared. “To secure a sustainable future, we must emulate the spirit of our heroes – those who tilled the soil, inspired in classrooms, cared in hospitals, and built our communities. This is why, each year, we honour not only the heroes of history but also the heroes among us.”

The Companion of the Star of Merit was awarded to Pastor Leroy Benjamin Sr. (Religion and Spiritual Leadership), Mr Goldwyn O. Caines (Public and Civic Service), Dr Jerome Thomas (Agriculture), Mrs Lydia Thompson Claxton (Sports), Mr Williams V.A. Hodge (Education and Academia), Ms Lorozine Williams (Education and Academia), Mrs Dorothy Clarke (Education and Academia), and Mr Franklin Dorset (Law, Justice and Sports).

The Medal of Honour was awarded to Mr Meredith Charles (Security and Defence), Ms Joyah Walters (Health and Medicine), Pastor Clive Saunders (Community Service and Religion), Mr Trevor Marti-Huggins (Sports), Mrs Etsu Bracha Keynes (Community Service), Mr Washington J. Fraites (Business and Entrepreneurship), Mr Lennox Warner (Business and Entrepreneurship), and Mr Stedroy Douglas (Sports and Community Service).

Dr Drew reminded citizens that these men and women exemplify what it means to place country above self. “They remind us that heroism is not confined to statues or history but lives and breathes among us every day,” he said.

The announcement of national honours was one of the highlights of this year’s Independence celebrations, which also featured the traditional flag-raising ceremonies, military parade, and community-led cultural festivities across both islands.