Union Island resident- Stanford Coy, was last Thursday recognized for his sterling contribution to life on the island, especially in the area of Disaster Management. {{more}}
Coy, who began his unbroken tenure with the Island’s Disaster Committee in 1990, was the toast of honour at a pomp ceremony held at the Richmond Beach on his native Union Island, Thursday, 20th January, 2021.
The well decorated venue, the glowing speeches, tangible tokens and the presence of family members and others from the community, were befitting of the impact Coy has had in his many years of community service.
Organised by the Union Island District Council, the turn of events on the day was filled with emotion, Coy included.
Noting that he did not perform his duties on the Disaster Management Committee to be recognized, Coy disclosed that he just loves serving.
“I love it, so it was not tedious to me … It was not strenuous, because I love to do what I was doing,” Coy stated.
Detailing his responsibilities as Chair of the Committee, Coy confirmed, “My duties were to open up the shelters, control where the storage is, get everybody organized when there is a pending storm , co-ordinate all the frontline workers, such as airport staff, police officers and so on.”
Although last Thursday’s ceremony signalled the end of his tenure, Coy said he will still be around to assist as the need arises.
“I am and will be always there once health and strength with me and called upon. I will be there because I love Union Island and I want to thank everyone for this occasion,” Coy committed.
Coy, however has more to come, as there is another recognition ceremony planned for him, this time by the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO).
Total Surprise
Coy’s emotions on the day, went through different gears, from being upset, to surprise, to elation.This, as he had no inkling of the ceremony.
Recalling the eventful day, Coy, who is also a church leader, said he was informed that he had to go to the venue to do the opening prayer for a Marriage Renewal.
“At first, I was really mad because of the late invitation to perform such a duty, but I still went… When I got there they were all waiting on me, they put me to sit with my wife…When they announced what the occasion was all about … I got emotional and I started to cry,” Coy related.
“My children and grandchildren were there …It was a surprise to me… I was very emotional, but at the end of the day, I was elated,” he added.
Coy thanked all for making the occasion a special one, one that he will always cherish.