National Heroes and Benefactors Day observed

By Aaron Humes: The holiday previously known as Baron Bliss Day and now known as National Heroes and Benefactors Day is being observed today.

It was first established in honor of English-born Portuguese Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, whose visit to Belize in 1926 proved a financial windfall for the colony which it enjoys to this day.

The sailor, engineer, and businessman left much of his fortune in trust to Belize in exchange for being buried on Belize’s shoreline and the use of his funds for various community projects.

In his honor, wreaths are presently being laid at his grave in Northside Belize City by various dignitaries in an annual ceremony.

Also honored today are Belize’s two national Heroes: George Price, long time leader of the country, and his political rival Philip Goldson. Their graves are inland at Lords Ridge Cemetery.

Traditional activities on this day include the Harbor Regatta and kite flying, as well as the conclusion of the Ruta Maya River Challenge canoe race.

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