Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis Observes National Heroes Day

On September 16, 2025, the twin-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis will commemorate National Heroes Day, a significant occasion dedicated to honouring the exceptional contributions of its most distinguished citizens. This annual celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of these individuals who shaped the nation’s destiny and paved the way for its progress and development. The day’s events will unfold with a blend of solemn remembrance and vibrant celebration, reflecting the enduring legacy of these national heroes.

The central event of the day will be a formal ceremony commencing at 8:00 a.m. at the National Heroes Park in Conaree. This hallowed ground, adorned with the statues of the nation’s four deceased national heroes – The late Right Excellencies Sir Robert Bradshaw, Sir C. A. Paul Southwell, Sir Joseph France, and Sir Simeon Daniel – will serve as the backdrop for a display of military honours by the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force. The ceremony will follow a traditional format, featuring a concise yet impactful program culminating in the laying of wreaths at the foot of each statue, a symbolic gesture of respect and gratitude for their invaluable contributions. The ceremony will also include special recognition and a presentation to the Right Excellent and the Right Honourable Dr. Sir Kennedy Simmonds, the nation’s sole living National Hero, further emphasizing the enduring significance of their contributions.

Beyond the formal proceedings, the day will also feature a separate ceremony at 4:00 p.m. at the Bradshaw Memorial Park in St. Pauls, specifically dedicated to honouring the memory and legacy of the Right Excellent Sir Robert L. Bradshaw, the nation’s first National Hero. This distinct tribute underscores the profound impact of Sir Robert Bradshaw’s leadership and vision in shaping the nation’s early development and establishing the foundation for its future prosperity. The dual ceremonies provide a comprehensive platform for honouring the diverse contributions of these exceptional individuals across various spheres of national life.

These commemorative events are expected to draw a diverse audience, including dignitaries such as the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, members of the National Assembly, representatives from the Nevis Island Administration, as well as local and visiting diplomats. However, the significance of National Heroes Day extends beyond officialdom, emphasizing the importance of public participation in honouring these national figures. Dr. Marcus Natta, Cabinet Secretary and Co-Chair of the Independence 42 Planning Committee, extended a warm invitation to the public, emphasizing the educational value of these ceremonies, particularly for the younger generation.

Dr. Natta highlighted the importance of engaging the youth in understanding the sacrifices and achievements of the national heroes, emphasizing the potential for these narratives to inspire future generations to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development. By showcasing the paths blazed by these exemplary figures, the ceremonies aim to instill a sense of national pride and encourage young people to envision themselves as future leaders and potential national heroes in their own right. This intergenerational connection is crucial for ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of Saint Kitts and Nevis, built upon the foundations laid by these revered figures.

In line with this educational focus, students from across the Federation will play an active role in both ceremonies. Representatives from various schools will participate in the wreath-laying ceremony, handing wreaths to officials and family members of the national heroes, symbolizing the passing of the torch of national pride and responsibility to the next generation. A student will also have the honour of presenting flowers to Sir Kennedy Simmonds, the living national hero, further reinforcing the connection between the past, present, and future of the nation. This active involvement of the student body underscores the importance of instilling a deep appreciation for the nation’s history and fostering a sense of continuity and shared responsibility for its future.