National Heroes Day programme set
Cayman Islands Fire Service contingent at last year’s National Heroes Day parade
(CNS Local Life): Details have been released for the upcoming National Heroes Day celebration, at which pioneers who contributed to the creation of the Cayman Islands’ Coat of Arms will be honoured. In addition to recognising the vestrymen and justices of the peace who were instrumental to getting the Coat of Arms in place, organisations that have been serving the Cayman Islands for more than 50 years will be celebrated at the Monday, 28 January event.
“On this day, we will come together to pay tribute to the vestrymen and justices of the peace who understood the importance of the Cayman’s Islands having a visual identity,” Premier Alden McLaughlin said in a press release.
“The creation of the Coat of Arms was the catalyst to other key events and milestones that shaped the nation we know and love today. I look forward to this opportunity to honour and celebrate the people who had a vision of success for our country.”
The more than 60 “founding” organisations being honoured represent a “cross-section of industries”, the press release said, and include Cayman Airways, the Cayman Islands Agricultural Society, and the Hungry Horse Restaurant.
The Cayman Islands’ nine National Heroes will also be recognised, to remind the public about their multi-faceted contributions, the release said: James (Jim) Manoah Bodden, Sybil Ione McLaughlin, Thomas William Farrington, Sybil Joyce Hylton, Ormond L. Panton, Desmond V. Watler, Mary Evelyn Wood, William Warren Connolly and Dr Roy Edison McTaggart.
The laying of wreaths and a moment of silence will also be observed to commemorate Cayman’s deceased nation-builders.
Other highlights of the celebration will include a walk-past by primary and secondary school children in a flag procession, as well as the traditional parade with contingents of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, the Cayman Islands Fire Service, Her Majesty’s Prison Service, Cadet Corps, Girls Brigade, Scouts and the Seventh Day Adventist Pathfinders.
The event, hosted by the McLaughlin, Minister for Culture Dwayne Seymour and Celebrate Cayman, will start promptly at 9am and attendees should be seated by 8:30am. The dress code is business attire and hats are optional.
Following the ceremony, the public is encouraged to visit a special exhibit focused on the Coat of Arms, housed in the George Town Library. There will also be live music and local food.
For more information call the Protocol Office at 244-3612 or email nationalevents@gov.ky.
