This size of the congregation did not deter those in attendance, who converged on the lawns of the Central Administration Complex in the heart of Road Town, Tortola, with hands raise in worship for the two-hours observance activities—marking the one year anniversary of Hurricane Irma and its terror. Photo: Team of Reporters

A section of the gathering for the one year observance activity held on the lawns of the Central Administration Complex. Photo: Team of Reporters

Premier Smith and Governor Jaspert unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion. Photo: Team of Reporters

The size of the congregation did not deter those in attendance, who converged on the lawns of the Central Administration Complex in the heart of Road Town, Tortola, with hands raise in worship for the two-hours observance activities—marking the one year anniversary of Hurricane Irma and its terror.

The occasion was marked with messages of reflection, hope and progress by some of the Territory’s Leaders including Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable D. Orlando Smith (AL), His Excellency the Governor Augustus J.U Jaspert aka “Gus”, Deputy Governor David D. Archer and Leader of the Opposition Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1).

Complacency

Governor Jaspert in his words of endearment for those gathered, was quick to caution that, “…we need to guard against complacency… We must not allow temporary solutions to become permanent.  We must not get used to this state.”

He noted that “one year on, let’s look at things with fresh eyes and push ourselves to get everything to a condition that we can be truly proud of.”

The United Kingdom’s representative told those in attendance, “as we recognise and celebrate how far we have come, today is also a day to rejuvenate ourselves to continue our recovery.”

According to Jaspert, “there is still a lot to do.”

Encouragement

Premier Smith in his presentation had words of encouragement for those in Territory when he said, “the observation of this anniversary does not serve to mark a spirit of tragedy; rather, it serves as a beacon of possibility.”

According to the VI’s Chief Legislator, the activity also "serves as a reminder of what is possible when, in the face of tragedy and in the face of hardship, good people come together to lend a hand to build a better future. Because of you, the people of the Virgin Islands, working together; this Territory is moving in the right.”

He said, “I am sure we shall never forget the terrible events that unfolded early on that Wednesday morning, just as we must not forget those who perished in the disaster, or indeed survivors who may still be suffering from trauma.”

According to Dr Smith, “there are some wounds that have not yet healed and there are some losses that can’t be compensated… And for many who lived through those harrowing days one year ago, there are searing memories that time may not erase.”

He charged nonetheless, “I have never been more confident that together we will get to where we need to be.”

Country Above Self

Deputy Governor Archer was high in commendation for the show of “country above self” and said “today is a day of hope, a transition from the old to the new.”

Premier Smith and Governor Jaspert also unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.