Antigua and Barbuda: Prime Minister Gaston Browne extended warm greetings and wishes to Vivian Richards, who received the Order of the Caribbean Community OCC award in the 43rd Regular CARICOM Head of Government Meetings.
The award is generally given to “Caribbean nationals whose legacy in the economic, political, social and cultural metamorphoses of Caribbean society is phenomenal.”
The award was presented by Chan Santokhi, President of the Republic of Suriname, to legendary West Indies captain Richard.
While applauding Vivian Richards, Prime Minister Gaston Browne asserted, “Viv was profoundly known as the most devastating batsman in cricket who commanded respect both on and off the field. His shots were unknown to ordinary mortals during his cricket period. Playing the game of cricket for Viv was a science, and his dominance created a sense of pride in the people of the region and was a motivator for young west Indian cricketers and cricketers around the world. Viv Richards and cricket shaped the Caribbean identity. This recognition by CARICOM is most fitting for a man who has dedicated his talents and beliefs to making our region stand tall.
Sir Viv is the second Antiguan and Barbudan to receive this prestigious award. Vere Cornwall Bird received the OCC in 1998.
Before Monday morning’s session of The 43rd Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, Prime Minister Gaston Browne along with CARICOM Heads and other delegates took part in a 1-K walk through the streets of Paramaribo, Suriname.
