by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)— 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” on September 19, 2025.
Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr Terrance Drew, in a national address, encouraged citizens of the Federation to continue on the path of perpetual progress.
“Let our refrain be simple and strong. We are one Federation, travelling the road of perpetual progress. We know where we have come from, we know where we are going, and together we will get there. We also honour those who carried us here: the farmers who tilled the soil, the teachers who inspired us, the nurses who cared, the builders who built, and the cultural icons who lifted our spirits. To secure a sustainable future, we must emulate their spirit of sacrifice and vision. Sustainability demands that we protect our land and waters, invest in renewable energy, nurture our people through healthcare and education, and ensure that opportunities reach every citizen. It is heroic work, not because it is easy, but because it is necessary, and because it requires prioritising the long-term good of the nation. This is why, each year, we take this opportunity to honour not only the heroes of history, but also the heroes among us – men and women whose lives exemplify service, courage, and devotion to our country. They are proof that heroism is alive in our time and that the spirit of country above self endures.”
The Prime Minister also named the 16 individuals who received the Medal of Honour (M.H.) as part of the 42nd Anniversary of Independence celebrations.
These men and women were honoured for their dedicated and loyal service to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Awarded for outstanding and meritorious service to the Nation, the Medal of Honour is bestowed upon:
“This year, on behalf of the government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, I am proud to announce the awardees of our national honours. Awarded for long and meritorious service or for loyal and devoted service to the nation, the Companion of the Star of Merit is bestowed upon 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, Mr. Franklin Dorset, Law and Justice and Sports. Awarded for outstanding and meritorious service to the nation, the Medal of Honour is bestowed upon 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, and Mr Washington J. Fraites, Business and Entrepreneurship, Mr Lennox Warner, Business and Entrepreneurship, Mr Stedroy Douglas, Sports and Community Service. These distinguished citizens have, through their work and example, lifted our Federation higher, whether in education, healthcare, law enforcement, culture, entrepreneurship, sports or community service.”
Dr Drew reminded the people that heroes are not only to be honoured posthumously, but also in the everyday heroes who positively influence their environment.
“They remind us that heroism is not confined to statues or history, but lives and breathes among us every day. So, my fellow citizens and residents, as we walk together on this day, let us vow to keep building, keep striving, keep believing.”
