Public Nomination of Vance Winkworth Amory for the Order of National Hero of St. Kitts and Nevis

Vance Winkworth Amory’s life was a testament to dedicated service and transformative leadership, profoundly impacting the development of Nevis and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. From his early days as a promising scholar and athlete to his distinguished career as an educator, banker, and statesman, Amory consistently demonstrated a commitment to uplifting his community and nation. This dedication is why the public has nominated him for the Order of National Hero, the highest honor bestowed by the Federation.

Amory’s journey began in Rawlins Village, Nevis, where his academic prowess and passion for cricket foreshadowed his future leadership. He honed his intellect at the University of the West Indies, gaining a strong foundation in economics and history that would later inform his policy decisions. Returning to Nevis, he embarked on a career in education, becoming the youngest headmaster of the Charlestown Secondary School. There, he implemented reforms that elevated academic standards and nurtured students’ talents through sports and extracurricular activities, fostering a generation of well-rounded individuals.

Beyond education, Amory’s expertise extended to the financial sector. As Manager of the St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla National Bank, he played a crucial role in establishing trust and stability within the institution. His astute leadership guided the bank through a period of growth and expansion, securing its future and ensuring financial access for Nevisians. This experience further solidified his reputation as a capable and responsible leader dedicated to serving the needs of his people.

Amory’s passion for sports, particularly cricket, was another defining aspect of his character. A talented batsman, he represented Nevis, the Leeward Islands, and the Combined Islands at the first-class level. However, his contributions extended beyond his personal athletic achievements. He was instrumental in founding the Nevis Football Association and the Nevis Amateur Athletic Association and later served as President of the Nevis Cricket Association. These initiatives underscored his belief in the power of sports to empower youth, instilling discipline, teamwork, and a sense of national pride.

Amory’s foray into politics marked a pivotal moment in his career. Driven by a vision for a more prosperous and self-sufficient Nevis, he founded the Concerned Citizens’ Movement (CCM) in 1987. This marked the beginning of his journey to becoming Premier of Nevis, a position he held for a combined 18 years across two terms. His premiership was characterized by significant infrastructural development and impactful policies. Among his most notable achievements was the realization of his ambitious goal to construct the Vance W. Amory International Airport, a project that overcame numerous challenges to open Nevis to the world and significantly boost its economy.

Amory’s influence extended beyond Nevisian politics. He served as Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament and later as Senior Minister in the Federal Cabinet. In these roles, he demonstrated his ability to balance the interests of Nevis with the broader goals of the Federation, advocating for Nevis’s autonomy while contributing to national progress. His appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary Plenipotentiary in the Office of the Prime Minister further cemented his reputation as a respected statesman and a leader of national stature.

The breadth of Vance Amory’s contributions is truly remarkable. He transformed education in Nevis, fostered trust in financial institutions, empowered youth through sports, spearheaded transformative infrastructure projects, and navigated the complexities of federal governance with wisdom and integrity. His commitment to education laid the foundation for future generations of Nevisians to thrive. His astute financial leadership strengthened the national bank and instilled confidence in local institutions. His promotion of sports provided avenues for youth development and fostered national pride. His political leadership brought about significant infrastructure development, most notably the international airport that continues to be a vital economic artery for Nevis. And finally, his statesmanship ensured Nevis’s voice was heard and respected on the national stage.

Amory’s legacy rests not only on his tangible achievements but also on the values he embodied: integrity, humility, and unwavering dedication to service. He was a visionary leader who inspired others to strive for excellence and work towards a better future for all. He built upon the legacy of Sir Simeon Daniel, another champion of Nevisian autonomy, further solidifying Nevis’s position within the Federation while strengthening the bonds of national unity.

The nomination for the Order of National Hero is a testament to the profound impact Vance Amory had on the lives of countless individuals and the development of the Federation as a whole. His transformative leadership in education, finance, sports, infrastructure development, and governance, coupled with his unwavering commitment to national unity and his embodiment of the highest ethical standards, makes him a truly deserving candidate for this esteemed honor. Conferring the Order of National Hero upon Vance Winkworth Amory would not only immortalize his remarkable contributions but also serve as an inspiration for future generations to emulate his vision, dedication, and unwavering patriotism. It would be a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service and a legacy that continues to shape the destiny of St. Kitts and Nevis.