Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has urged citizens to rededicate themselves to the principles and values that guided Antigua and Barbuda’s national heroes, during Monday’s Independence Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Heroes Park in Tomlinson’s.

Addressing the gathering of government officials, diplomats, students, and service members, Sir Rodney said the ceremony was more than a moment of tribute—it was an opportunity for reflection on the nation’s progress and purpose. He described it as “a mirror through which we might ask ourselves what the journey of our lives and our national life has been so far.”

The Governor General invoked the 2025 Independence theme, _Solid, Stable, Soaring_ , framing it as a roadmap for national growth: being “solid” in integrity and unity, “stable” through strong institutions and shared values, and “soaring” for collective progress rather than personal gain.

He also highlighted the contributions of the nation’s six heroes — Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., Dame Georgiana Nellie Robinson, Sir George Walter, King Court, Sir Lester Bird, and Sir Isaac Vivian Richards — noting that their paths differed, but their destination was the same: the advancement and upliftment of the people.

“As we lay our wreaths this morning, let them not only symbolize remembrance, but also rededication,” he said, adding that the best days of Antigua and Barbuda remain ahead.

The ceremony, which marked the lead-up to the nation’s 44th Independence anniversary, also included an invocation and blessing by the Very Reverend Dean Dwayne Cassius, and remarks from Education Minister Daryl Matthew, who underscored plans to engage more students in future observances to deepen appreciation for national history and identity.

Wreaths were laid by Sir Rodney, Acting Prime Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Minister Matthew, relatives of national heroes, and foreign dignitaries, including ambassadors from Venezuela, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and the United Kingdom.

The event continues a series of Independence celebrations leading up to next week’s ceremonial parade and national food fair.