Video: Sir John Swan Inducted As National Hero
[Updated with video] Sir John Swan was formally inducted as a Bermuda National Hero at a ceremony held today [June 19] at the Cathedral in Hamilton.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Social Development and Sports Sylvan Richards said, “Good afternoon and welcome to the 2016 National Heroes Induction and Proclamation Ceremony.
“Today, on this most auspicious occasion, we have come together to celebrate our new national hero the Honourable Sir John W. Swan, K.B.E., J.P.
“National Heroes Day is celebrated annually to honour those persons who have been officially designated as national heroes in Bermuda; those who have made a significant and lasting contribution to Bermuda and enriched the lives of others, while contributing to the quality of life and destiny of Bermuda.
“The National Hero designation is an enduring honour which means that once a person is named as a national hero, he or she will be a national hero forever.
“The induction of our new national hero is a very special time for all of us; but surely none of us feel as proud today as the members of Sir John’s family who I wish to acknowledge here this afternoon. Having a supportive and loving family is the foundation to a successful and full life.
“Sir John has made significant and profound contributions to our country – as a politician, as a real estate developer and as a passionate advocate for our island.
“He is also known for his warmth, humility, sense of humour and gentlemanly demeanour – something which, on a personal note, I have always admired about him.
“To everyone assembled, thank you for coming and now let’s celebrate our national heroes together. Enjoy the ceremony. Thank you.”
Read More About
Category: All, News, Politics, Videos
Great man, thoughtful and kind. Well done!
He was a puppet for the once strong UBP party and they all turned their backs on him when he tried to be the LEADER. This is the same UBP that the majority of black Bermudians on this island didn’t want to vote for so they changed the name to OBA to fool the people.
As Jim Woolrridge said “those little white boys don’t mind you being in charge as long as they can tell you what to do – “The House That Jack … C.V. (Jim) Woolridge
To Dock Yard bie, just recognise Sir John for his accomplishments – your other comments are totally irrelevant and unnecessary at this time.
Totally irrelevant and unnecessary, but TRUE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you can fool a people into voting for your party just by changing the name,then that speaks to the Depth and intellect of the voter.The same can be said for voting for the same party cause my family always did,treating them like they are your fav football team,color of skin or simply voting for a party that without a hint of remorse, buries your country in dept.
And congrats Sir John.
True and I agree, only a certain people can do it and its ok.
A Hero – who in the face of danger, combats adversity through impressive feasts of ingenuity, bravery or strength, often sacrificing his or her OWN personal concerns for some greater goods.
Oh for Goodness sake can someone take the lead for for once and congratulate Sir John. For once leave race out of a well deserved honor please.We have turned out to be neagative just for the sake of it.
Congratulations Sir John!!!
Congratulations for all for all you’ve done over these years;and the recognition extented to you for those deeds…
Wonderful. So very much deserved.
Who on Gods green earth would no wish this man congratulation. For those of you on this form that have negative remarks and ticked NO, shame on you.
Congratulations Sir John.
You are my hero! Congrats Sir John.
As usual, that which was meant to unite has been used by the OBA to divide. But you have to give it to them, they are the masters of irony. Pathways to Status failed and caused great upset in this country. In return, the OBA make a national hero of the architect of the very immigration policies that caused the “Bermudians second” approach that led to the pent up anger released in March. Some people may have conveniently glossed over Sir John’s history, but for those of us who remember the 70s and 80s, he squandered every opportunity to truly transform Bermuda for the better in the name of the people from whom he claims to have sprung.
No bank, no economic empowerment, “young black males are a problem”, landscapes destroyed by housing developments that packed ‘em in like mice and after 13 years at the helm could only muster the most pathetic farewell in politics: “they wouldn’t even invite me down (to Front Street) for tea and cookies…”
It is no coincidence that THIS “hero” was the unilateral, secret selection of Michael Dunkley. Clearly his wish is that we would all be more like Sir John. What an insult. What a farce.
Yes congrats you deserve it you have done so much for your community. As usual some people just don’t get it they are so colored blind. God be with you and your family.
You want to talk about puppets where the hell is Paula Cox the one who put us in such Debt. No where to be seen one thing I can say with as you say the old UBP they have never run away and still are here trying to help this country not like a lot of the OLD PLP took the monies and ran never to be seen again.
Mr Swan congrats for such a great job. Someone that really deserve it.
You are our hero. Thanks sir supporting same sex marriage. Love Wins X
Vote yes on June 23rd.
Congratulations. Well deserved. Proud of your accomplishments.
Congratulations Sir John; it was a pleasure to serve with you in Cabinet Office 1969-77. You have a mention in my ‘Scott Free’ memoirs concerning the avoidance of the General Strike that would have doomed the Royal Visit. Best Wishes to you and yours, from Brighton to Bermuda, Ray Scott