fp Turks and Caicos

Monday, May 30, is National Heroes Day in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It is a day set aside to honor a man who is known to have changed the face of government for the people of the TCI — JAGS McCartney.

“When I consider the definition of a hero, not necessarily the person that is in front of everybody else, but a person who is not afraid to do what others are afraid to do,” Yaa McCartney said of her father in 2009. “He wasn’t afraid to step up to the plate as an elected leader, he wasn’t afraid to do what he had to do for not himself, but for his people.”

James Alexander George Smith McCartney is honoured in the TCI as its first chief minister and only national hero.

McCartney was one of the founders of the People’s Democratic Party (which was later renamed People’s Democratic Movement) in 1976, the year he was elected to a four-year term in office. He became the youngest leader in the Commonwealth at the age of 31. He held the office of Chief Minister from August 1976 until May 9, 1980, when he died in a plane crash over New Jersey.

McCartney is revered for the instrumental role he played in the establishment of the ministerial form of internal self-government in the islands. Another of his notable achievements was his effort in the development of Club Med. He also made representations to the United Nations on behalf of his people in order to jump-start this development in the country.

Known for his kindness and bravery, McCartney was is also remembered for his uncanny ability to relate to all persons, and his ability to see beyond political affiliation.

In honour of him and his dedication to the people of the TCI, the Grand Turk International Airport was named after him.

Today, the life and death of McCartney is commemorated on National Heroes Day. The Cultural and Arts Commission will be holding its Annual Heroes Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at the J.A.G.S. Memorial Site on Grand Turk at 10 a.m.

This ceremony traditionally not only honours McCartney but also those unsung heroes. The events will also be broadcast live via Radio Turks and Caicos.