Last Updated on September 17, 2025, 1:40 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew led the celebrations of National Heroes Day on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the National Heroes Park in Conaree and began at 8:00 am, to honor the country’s five National Heroes. They are – late Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, Sir Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell, Sir Joseph Nathaniel France, Sir Simeon Daniel, and Sir Kennedy Simmonds.
St Kitts and Nevis Defense Force and the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force paid military honors to these heroes. Another ceremony was held at 4:00 pm at the Bradshaw Memorial Park in St Pauls, to recognize the legacy of the First National Hero, Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw.
Both ceremonies were attended by the Governor General, the Prime Minister, members of the National Assembly members and some other Nevis Island Administration members, officials in Nevis and visiting diplomats. The dignitaries were greeted and the ceremonies were officiated by Cabinet Secretary and Co-Chair of the Independence 42 Planning Committee, Dr Marcus Natta.
Prime Minister’s address on legacy and sustainability
In his address, PM Drew reminded the citizens of the twin island nation that the sacrifices of the Heroes made the Federation what it is today. He also spoke of the importance of building on the legacy of the national heroes. The prime minister stated that the issue they face at present is not colonialism, but how to create a sustainable and fair future for all.
“Today, our challenge is not the yoke of colonialism or the denial of sovereignty. Our challenge is how to secure a future that is both prosperous and sustainable, how to ensure perpetual progress. That means stewarding our natural resources wisely, embracing renewable energy, and safeguarding our environment for generations to come,” highlighted PM Drew.
He added that their efforts are about creating a system that provides equal opportunities for all, which at the same time includes protection for the most vulnerable. Also, it is about building a society which has health care, education, housing, and justice as rights for all and not just for a select few.
Honoring the National Heroes, the Prime Minister also highlighted the theme of Independence 42, “Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future.” He said that this year’s celebrations are a reminder of continuous progress, and that each individual citizen has a role to play.
The ceremony ended with the laying of wreaths at the statues of late Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, Sir Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell, Sir Joseph Nathaniel France, Sir Simeon Daniel, and Sir Kennedy Simmonds.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
