Etched in history

FOR SOME HONOREES, it may have been a case of having initials placed behind their names for the first time, which speaks of commitment to their country. But for all the recipients of National Honours and Awards at Government House yesterday, the occasion represented an unforgettable hallmark in their lives.

The 22 Barbadians selected for national recognition during last year’s Independence anniversary were presented with their insignia by Governor General Sir Elliott Belgrave at a morning garden ceremony witnessed by relatives and friends.

Cultural icon, dramatist and author Dr Cynthia Wilson, in a wheelchair on this occasion, smiled all the way to the platform where Sir Elliott presented her with the insignia of Barbados’ second highest honour, the Companion of Honour. It was fitting reward for her contribution to the arts, and to the enrichment of the cultural life of a post-Independence Barbados.

The Gold Crown of Merit was bestowed on retired educator Jeanese Badenock, retired public servant Samuel Chandler, dentist Dr Victor Eastmond and veteran trade unionist LeVere Richards.

Please read the full story in today’s Daily Nation, or in the eNATION edition.