ST MARY, Jamaica — Twenty-four individuals from across St Mary will be recognised for the mark they have made in various fields over the years as Jamaica celebrates Heroes’ Day on Monday.

Among them are three centenarians: 104-year-old Catherine Clarke, along with Beryl Mcintosh Dias and Wilhelm Mae Baxter, who are both 100 years old.

In addition, 35-year-old Castleton resident Tamara Ivy will be recognised for the bravery she showed on September 29 by saving a three-year-old boy from drowning.

“I saw the group come to the Castleton River with lots of children and my mind a tell me to go and warn them about the river, but me other spirit a tell me to leave them alone. So I stand there watching the children as no one was watching them in the water. As I went into my house I saw the little baby washing away down the river so I run to save him,” Ivy recalled of the fateful day.

She is humbled to be recognised for her actions though that was the furthest thing from her mind when she saved the child.

Cecil Gordon, who will be recognised for his contributions in the area of community service, is also among the awardees. While surprised to be on the list, he is eager to receive his award.

“I am looking forward to Monday and I will cherish this award for years to come,” Gordon said.

The outgoing Commanding Officer for the St Mary Division, Superintendent of Police Bobbette Morgan Simpson, will be honoured with the Mayor’s special award. Individuals from the St Mary Infirmary and the Jamaica Red Cross are also on the list of awardees.

– Ingrid Henry