Premier Visits WWII Vet Randolph Hayward
Premier David Burt today paid a visit to Randolph Hayward, who served with the Bermuda Contingent of the Caribbean Regiment during World War II, with the Premier noting that as ”we approach Remembrance Day, it is important that we celebrate these living links to our history.”
A Government spokesperson said, “Premier David Burt today paid a visit to the home of Mr. Randolph Hayward Esq. who served with the 1st Battalion, Caribbean Regiment [Bermuda Contingent] during World War II.
“Mr. Hayward was among those men deployed from Bermuda to Italy and Egypt in 1944 in support of the war effort. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of their departure for overseas service.
“Writing on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary in 1994, Rev. Dr. Erskine C. Simmons noted: “You volunteered to serve and were prepared to lay down your lives for freedom and democracy even though you did not enjoy the benefits of those freedoms. Therefore Bermuda owes you an even greater debt of gratitude for your willingness serve.”
Premier Burt said: “It was an honour to connect with so distinguished a man as Mr. Hayward. As we approach Remembrance Day, it is important that we celebrate these living links to our history.
“The ranks of these brave men did not include any officers, based purely on the racial prejudice at the time. Who knows what they might have achieved given the opportunity?”
The Premier also wished Mr. Hayward an early happy birthday, presenting the keen gardener with a plant, as he will turn 96 next week.
Thank you, Mr. Premier for your continued support of seniors. It is most visible. It was your party which implemented a “raise”in a senior’s monthly “PAY”.
THANK YOU immensely.
Bob Richards’ comment was for seniors: Money does not grow on trees.(Couldn’t care less!)
May we all remember that point as we go towards the polls in another few years.
What a vibrant looking character you are Mr. Hayward. Thank you for your service.
And to think that he and others were denied War Veterans Pension.