Belizean patriots honored in grand ceremony at Battlefield Park

Published by [email protected] at September 14, 2023

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Posted: Thursday, September 14, 2023. 5:48 pm CST.

By Horace Palacio: The Battlefield Park in Belize City was a scene of national pride and reverence on the evening of September 13, as twenty-five eminent individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the nation during the annual Tribute to Belizean Patriots ceremony.

The honors bestowed were categorized into the Order of Belize, Order of Distinction, Meritorious Service Award – Female, and Meritorious Service Award – Male.

Order of Belize:

Hon. Jimmy Carter, the Former President of the United States, was honored for his longstanding record of friendship and support to Belize.
The late Hon. Gwendolyn Lizarraga was posthumously recognized for her contributions to community service.

Order of Distinction:

Father Leo Weber, SJ was celebrated for his significant contributions to the education sector.

Meritorious Service Award – Female saw a diverse group of women from various fields:

Lilia Bowman, Ignacia Arana, Myrtle Palacio, Maria Chang, Neria Pickwoad, Jane Locario, Claudette Hulse, Anita Tzib, Ofelia Chiac, Eliza Arnold, and Olga Gordon were all commended for their respective contributions to community service, education, culture, business, sports, and more.

Meritorious Service Award – Male:

Recognitions went to Allan Sharp for sports; Dr. Kevin Guerra and Dr. Kenneth Guerra (both posthumously) for their pivotal roles in the medical field during the COVID-19 pandemic; Eugenio Ah, Eworth Garbutt, and Narciso Torres for environmental endeavors; Basilio Novelo, Dr. Gregorio Garcia, and Thomas Oliver for strides in education; Dion Flowers (posthumously) for sports; and Walter Brown for his commitment to community and public service.

The National Honours and Awards Act of 1991 mandates such accolades, either on Independence Day or other significant times. It’s a means of paying tribute to those – living or deceased – who’ve provided invaluable service to Belize or have showcased exemplary efforts deserving of national acknowledgment.

As the evening came to a close, the underlying message was clear: Belize continues to thrive and shine because of its dedicated citizens, and it’s only fitting that they’re honored in such a grand manner.

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