Bahamians From All Walks of Life Honoured for Their Contributions

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – From veteran public servants to community builders, hundreds are honoured this National Heroes Day.

The National Honours Ceremony recognised men and women who have helped shape the country, some through decades of service and others through acts of bravery.

On this National Heroes Day, the spotlight was on Bahamians who have spent their lives making a difference.

Friends and family were also there to share in the special moment as honourees were formally recognised by Governor General Dame Cynthia Pratt.

National Honours Advisory Committee Chairman Fred Mitchell says it is a moment worth sharing with future generations.

Fred Mitchell – Chairman, National Honours Advisory Committee

“Look where you are today, being awarded and recognised by your country for what may have seemed to you at the time an ordinary part of life’s journey. I hope, in this Youth Month, all of you share in the glory of this moment and tell your story to your children and your grandchildren.”

The honours included the Order of Excellence, Order of Distinction, Order of Merit and Distinguished Service Medals.

Among those recognised was Melanie Roach, who has spent years helping to develop national infrastructure.

Melanie Roach – Order of Distinction

“I’ve been privileged to work on every type of infrastructure project, the major projects of this country: the bridges, the roads, the airports, the public schools, clinics. So, it has been a joy and a privilege to really serve my country and to see the difference that even an individual can make when working with a team.”

For Terry Archer, the recognition comes after 47 years of service in protocol.

Terry Archer – Order of Distinction

“Working in this capacity of national events and working in ceremonies and operations, administration, for 47 years of my life, giving my life to service, and it is an honour for doing that. So, yes, I am very proud to receive this honour at this time.”

Prime Minister Philip Davis says the day is about more than just celebrating the honourees’ achievements.

He laid a challenge for the next generation of Bahamians, encouraging them to build on the foundation already laid.

Philip Davis – Prime Minister

“What will you build on this foundation? No one we honour today began with everything figured out. Each of them began somewhere, with a decision, with an opportunity taken, with the courage to try something worth doing, and the determination to keep going when the road got hard. You don’t need the perfect idea or the perfect moment. Begin where you are with what you have.”