fp Turks and Caicos

Unknown to many of the present generation, the Turks and Caicos Islands played an important role in upholding the sword of justice in defense of liberty and in preserving peace throughout the nation amidst the winds of war. Thanks to the unsung heroes - men and women whose great love for concord put their very lives on the line so that we are guaranteed the way of life we enjoy today. History has it that Turks and Caicos Islanders put courage under fire. Historic records tell of an enthralling story of how this small nation took part in a global war.

The salt raking industry in the islands was remarkable in the sense that it made an impoverished Turks and Caicos Islands during World War I survive. Amidst the difficulties brought about by war, the islanders were able to scrape together enough to pay for an ambulance in WWI that was used on the western front.

During the second World War, the Turks and Caicos Islands was a significant area of war. German submarines called U-boats attacked the islands. In May 1942, German U-boats began to sink merchant vessels in the area at an alarming rate. The U-boats made a great impact on the people who lived and traveled in the Islands.

Soon enough the perils of war slowly took its toll. There had been food rationing, communication blocks, black-outs and other hardships, but Islanders were determined to survive and end the war triumphantly. People from across the country raised funds to support the troops and buy equipment for the Allied Forces. At the end of the war, the Islanders could claim to have partially funded the warship HMS Caicos, a Spitfire and a mobile canteen, as well as having supplied a significant number of troops and homeless children with hand-knitted hats, pullovers, gloves and socks.

In 1944, the United States Armed Forces established an anti-submarine base on South Caicos. They constructed a 6,000 foot landing strip which was handed over to the government at the end of the war. Quoting the Secretary of State for the Colonies in 1942, "The year that has passed since Empire Day 1941 has seen many dangers, and some grievous losses. But it has also seen great exertion and a steady mounting of the power and resources of the allied nations. And it has brought us to a stage where we can not only face the future with unshaken confidence -- but can discern perhaps as yet only faintly and in the distance the promised victory to come”. The war ended in 1945; an atmosphere of victory rang all over the place.

Indeed, our veterans are heroes. They came together to support the war efforts that happened and learned to adapt to such strange conditions.

The title “veteran” must be earned. It is a title endowed by a grateful nation on citizens whose shoulders were broad enough to carry the weight of our common defense.

It is a title that speaks of compassion and heartbreak in the wake of the terrible cost of war.

Turks and Caicos veterans did not shrink from battle; they did not yield to fear; they did not abandon their cause. All too often they paid the ultimate price. Whether you’re a mother, a father, a leader, a teacher, a student or just an ordinary person ... each one could be a veteran.

By their example of courage under fire, they raised up a new nation, inspired by the dignity of the common man -- a nation blessed with heroes and heroes’ dreams. Let us continue their legacy.

As much as they may differ by gender, race, age, national origin, or profession, they share a common love for our great nation. These veterans are the best people our society has to offer. We owe them our full support, and our sincerest thanks.

TCI war heroes and veterans are praiseworthy of accolade… worthy of honor.