By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune News Editor

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis hailed this year’s National Heroes Day honorees as the living embodiment of the Bahamian spirit — men and women who have strengthened the nation through quiet, selfless service rooted in faith, compassion, and community.

More than 500 people were awarded national honours at Government House yesterday. The Order of National Hero was bestowed upon Pompey Rolle, who led the 1830 rebellion of a group of slaves in Exuma after the slaves received a transfer order to Cat Island.

Speaking at the official ceremony yesterday, Mr Davis reflected on his own humble beginnings in Cat Island, recalling how a “barefoot boy from Old Bight” could never have imagined one day standing as Prime Minister. He said his journey was not his alone, but a reflection of the Bahamian story.

“When I look around this room today, I see that same story in the lives of every person being honoured,” Mr Davis said. “I see men and women who have given their time and their hearts to this country. You have done it quietly, without asking for recognition, because you believe in serving others.

The Prime Minister praised honourees drawn from every island and walk of life for choosing “service over self.”

“You chose to give instead of take,” he said. “You chose to make this country stronger, kinder, and more hopeful.”

Mr Davis said true success is not measured by wealth or status, but by the good people do for others. “Here in The Bahamas, we have always known a different truth,” he said. “Success is measured by how much we give. It is measured by the love we show, by the good we do, and by the lives we lift up along the way.”

He described the honourees as “the reason The Bahamas continues to stand tall through every storm,” adding that their examples prove the country’s greatest strength lies not in its resources but in the character of its people.

The Prime Minister urged Bahamians, particularly young people, to draw inspiration from the honourees’ lives of service. “Do not wait for perfect conditions to do good,” he said. “Start where you are. Help where you can. Love this country enough to leave it better than you found it.”

He said the government’s recognition of the honourees reflects the nation’s gratitude to those who have lived lives of purpose. “You have shown us what true leadership looks like,” Mr Davis said. “Leadership is not about power or position. It is about responsibility. It is about showing up when others step back, about lifting others up when they are down.”

Mr Davis said the honourees’ faith and perseverance exemplify the values that built the nation and must guide it forward.

“You remind us that this country’s beauty is not only in its waters or its skies, but in its people,” he said. “Your stories are the story of The Bahamas. They are stories of hope, humility, and faith that God rewards those who serve with love and sincerity.”