Local News
Remembrance Day Ceremony Honours Veterans and Unveils Remarkable BVIslander’s Story
In a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, Government House hosted a Remembrance Day Ceremony that was attended by twenty-seven veterans from around the world. The ceremony included a solemn two-minute silence to mark the significance of the occasion.
Remembrance Day, observed on 11 November annually, commemorates the signing of the armistice at 11 am on 11 November 1918, marking the end of the First World War. On this day, communities worldwide unite to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their countries.
Governor John Rankin CMG, representing the King, laid a wreath in tribute to military servicemen and women who gave their lives for peace and freedom.
Acting Premier Hon. Kye Rymer laid a wreath on behalf of the BVI to honor BVIslanders who fell in conflict, while Commissioner of Police Mark Collins paid homage to fallen police officers. Ms. Brenda Herbert-Stewart, representing all military veterans, laid a wreath in remembrance of their comrades.
In his address, Governor Rankin shared a personal connection to the day, stating, “I wear my poppy in memory of my father who served with the Royal Air Force in World War II.” He expressed respect for all veterans, acknowledging their ongoing commitment to protecting the rights of freedom.
Governor Rankin spotlighted the extraordinary story of Private Samuel Hodge, born in Tortola in 1840, the only BVIslander known to be awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest British award for bravery. The Governor emphasized the importance of commemorating Hodge’s legacy, expressing hope for a War Memorial in Queen Elizabeth II Park to honor all armed forces personnel.
“We owe a huge debt to our service people, past, present, and future. We will remember them, and I salute all of you who are gathered here this morning,” Governor Rankin concluded.
Veterans residing in the BVI are encouraged to register with the Governor’s Office for future Remembrance Events by emailing Govoffice.Tortola@fcdo.gov.uk with their contact details, branch, and location of service.
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Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
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