PORT ANTONIO, Portland – The maroon community of Moore Town in Portland will be hosting a special function tomorrow to honour former Colonel C L G Harris, for his contribution to the development of the community and the advancement of education in the parish.

In an interview with JIS News, Colonel Wallace Sterling said the function was being planned by the Moore Town Maroon Council as a fitting tribute to the exemplary leadership and outstanding work done by Colonel Harris, both as leader of the Maroons and citizen of the community.

A teacher by profession, Colonel Harris served as head of the Moore Town Maroons from 1964 to 1995. He served as principal of the Moore Town Primary School from 1954 until his retirement in 1976.

The author of several books, including Chronicle of the Windward Maroons, On My Honour and Teacha, Colonel Harris was also a member of the Senate from 1967 to 1972.

Recently awarded the Honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of the West Indies, he was instrumental in getting the government to elevate Nanny to the rank of national heroine.

Colonel Sterling said the Moore Town community was particularly pleased to be able to formally express its appreciation to Colonel Harris while he was still alive, as it was important for persons who had such a positive impact on the community development process, to be aware of the extent to which their work is recognised and accepted by the people they serve.

He said the function has been carefully planned to feature performances and presentations in a number of Maroon traditions and customs, adding that it would also be highlighted by performances from other organisations, including churches and cultural groups in the parish.

Tributes will be paid to Colonel Harris by several persons who have worked closely with him over the years.