Milton Cato and Phyllis Punnett honoured
AS PART OF National Heroes and Heritage Month, Robert Milton Cato, this country’s first Prime Minister, and Phyllis Punnett who wrote the lyrics of the National Anthem, were honoured for their enduring contributions that helped to shape the identity and progress of St.Vincent and the Grenadines.
The recognition ceremony, held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church Parish Hall in Calliaqua, was in a spirit of gratitude and reflection and celebrated the remarkable lives and achievements of these two pioneers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Trade Unionist and nephew of Milton Cato, Joseph “Burns” Bonadie, highlighted Cato’s visionary leadership, while noting that he laid the foundation for modern governance and national advancement.
Equally celebrated was Phyllis Punnett, musician and writer who penned the lyrics of the national anthem in 1967 and whose work in education and cultural preservation has enriched generations of Vincentians.
Dance Development Officer in the Ministry of Culture, Juanita Phillips-Cato said, “Her work helps us express pride and she is remembered as one of our country’s important poets and cultural figures and her legacy continues to inspire us all.”
The ceremony also saw cultural performances and ended with wreaths laid on the graves of the celebrated individuals.
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