Cayman Islands Recognise Four New National Heroes

29 January 2025, 07:16 AM

Government

The Cayman Islands has recognised four new National Heroes on Monday 27 January 2025 as a part of the National Heroes Day celebrations.

Premier Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly announced that Cabinet has bestowed the honour of National Hero posthumously to:

The Hon. Captain Keith Tibbetts,

The Hon. Ernest Craddock Ebanks, and

The Hon. Frank Hugh George Scotland.

The Hon. Mrs Francine Eldona Jackson, CMM received the National Hero honour in-person and is now the Cayman Islands’ only living Hero.

"Each of these individuals have led exemplary lives that show a rich tapestry of service to and love for the Cayman Islands. The title of National Hero has been bestowed on each of them as a tribute to their legacies and a token of gratitude, for their contributions to the betterment and success of the Cayman Islands", stated Premier O'Connor-Connolly. "Today, we have ensured that they will be remembered and revered by Caymanians for generations to come."

The 2025 Awards Presentation also featured the investiture of three persons to the Order of the Cayman Islands. In her capacity as Chancellor for the Order, Premier O'Connor-Connolly invested the following persons:

Captain Paul Adolph Hurlston, Companion of Order of the Cayman Islands (CCI)

Reverend Doctor Edwin Tatum, Officer of the Order of the Cayman Islands (OCI)

Pastor Garret Haylock, Member of the Order of the Cayman Islands (MCI)

In his introduction of the 2025 honourees, Minister for Culture, the Hon. Dwayne Seymour, explained this year's theme "Celebrating the Icons of Business and Entrepreneurship". "This year's theme reflects the remarkable achievements of Caymanians who have not only built businesses but have also shaped the very fabric of our economy and community", he stated. "Today, we honour those who have not only succeeded in their ventures but have inspired countless others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Their leadership has created jobs, fostered innovation, and contributed to the prosperity we enjoy today."

227 persons were honoured for making innovative and lasting contributions to the Cayman Islands economy and business community. Honourees were grouped into three categories: Legacy Builders (Early Pioneers), Modern Visionaries (Pioneers) and Innovators of Impact. For a list of the 2025 honourees, category descriptions and awards criteria, visit https://www.gov.ky/events/national-heroes-day/honourees.

Looking ahead to next year’s celebration, Deputy Premier Hon. Kenneth Bryan announced the 2026 theme, "Heroes of the Faith".