The late Benson Obadiah Ebanks, OBE, has been posthumously announced as a new national hero of the Cayman Islands.
The official declaration was made at the National Heroes Day ceremony in Heroes Square in George Town on 26 January.
Ebanks, who lived from 18 February 1935 to 29 March 2022, was awarded Cayman’s highest honour by Cabinet.
It recognises his lifelong contribution to the growth and development of the Cayman Islands.
Premier André Ebanks, who made the announcement, highlighted his many achievements, noting his pivotal role in the construction of major infrastructure.
This included the Government Administration Building, a new legislative building, George Town port, six primary schools and extensive road works from West Bay to Bodden Town.
Benson Ebanks was also involved in the establishment of the Lighthouse School, Radio Cayman and Cayman Airways.
The National Heroes Day ceremony recognised Caymanian men and women whose vision, dedication and hard work shaped the infrastructure and public institutions.
This year’s theme was, ‘Honouring a Nation Built: The Power of Physical Infrastructure’.
A total of 113 recipients received National Recognition Awards for their contributions to the development of Cayman’s infrastructure and public institutions.
Honourees were recognised across three categories – Landmark Leaders, Infrastructure Innovators, and Builders of Cayman.
Prior to the presentation of the National Recognition Awards, culture and heritage minister Isaac Rankine reflected on the evolution of the awards.
He said: “This year marks an important change in the way we recognise excellence and service.
“But be assured that although the name of the awards has evolved, the purpose of National Heroes Day remains unchanged – to celebrate those whose service has strengthened our nation and uplifted our people.”
A full list of awardees, category descriptions and awards criteria is available here.
