The Minister for Housing, and Member of Parliament for High Rock, The Hon. A. Kenneth Russell, was on hand to give remarks June 30 as the United States Embassy observed the 235th Anniversary of Independence of the United States of America by co-hosting a grand celebration in Freeport, Grand Bahama under the theme, “Celebrating the United States’ Great Military Traditions”. The event was held in partnership with the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) aboard the U.S. Naval Ship USS VICKSBURG at the Lucayan Harbour.
U.S. Ambassador Nicole A. Avant, Admiral James A. Winnefeld Jr. Commander USNORTHCOM and Captain Timothy Mahan, Commanding Officer of the USS VICKSBURG (CG-69) also provided remarks at the event.
The USS Vicksburg has a rich history dating back to October 1775. Since then the U.S. Navy has grown into the largest naval fleet in the world. Ambassador Avant used the opportunity to highlight the role of the USS VICKSBURG and its crew of men and women who dutifully represent the U.S. Navy and protect the freedom of all Americans. The Ambassador referenced U.S. President Barack Obama who praised the U.S. Armed Forces for their patriotism, valour and honour to country.
“It is not without sacrifice that we are able to maintain our liberties and words cannot describe America’s gratitude to your service,” Ambassador Avant told the guests.
The Ambassador also noted that the celebration is a testament to the longevity of the U.S.-Bahamas friendship which is based upon shared democratic values. In his remarks, Minister Russell reiterated the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that The Bahamas and the United States enjoy both as friends and neighbours.
Later that evening, a moment of silence was observed to remember members of the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their lives in the line of duty. That was followed by the official toasts to both countries and the official ceremonial cake cutting. Popular local Bahamian Jazz Band, Shelley Carey and Tru Music provided the musical entertainment throughout the evening.
Earlier that day, Admiral James Winnefeld Jr., and U.S. Ambassador Nicole Avant visited the Grand Bahama Children’s Home. At that time Admiral Winnefeld presented a donation to the home of behalf of USNORTHCOM that included bedding, footwear, clothing and art supplies for their summer enrichment programme. The children also enjoyed patriotic treats, food and a bouncy castle provided by the U.S. Embassy.
The United States Embassy would like to thank the following sponsors in Nassau and Freeport that helped to make both events a success – Atlantis Resort/Kerzner International, Baha Mar/Sheraton Resort, Bahamas Food Services, Bahamas International Rentals Ltd., Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club, Bradford Marine Bahamas Ltd., Bristol Wines & Spirits and Bacardi USA, British Colonial Hilton Nassau, Burns House Group of Companies, Caribbean Bottling Company (Bahamas) Ltd., Chevron Bahamas Ltd., Dartley Bank & Trust Ltd., Discovery Management Inc., Disney Worldwide Services, Esso Standard Oil S.A. Ltd., Freeport Aggregates Ltd., Greyco Ltd., J.M. Family Enterprises, Inc., J.P. Morgan Trust Company (Bahamas) Ltd., Kentucky Fried Chicken, Lowe’s (USA), MSC Bahamas Ltd., Odyssey Aviation, Radisson Our Lucaya, Grand Bahama, Bahamas, Phil’s Food Services, PriceWaterHouseCoopers, Starbucks, Seaboard Marine Bahamas Ltd., Sweet South Fine Cakes, Texaco Bahamas Ltd. and Treasure Bay Casino.
