Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., you’re a man, big in stature and
humble at heart. You came, you saw the intolerable plight of
Antiguans & Barbudans. You set the wheels in motion and
started the struggle against the plutocracy that devoured our
society. You became the ambassador of the people. You
traveled by sea & air; you had no fear. On some occasions,
you were told to walk thru the back door, but because of
your courage you stoically strode thru the front door.

The years of hardship you endured, became a little less,
when Antigua & Barbuda gained associated Statehood with
Britain. Another struggle began, but you forged ahead, even
though there were rough roads and obstacles to overcome. There
were other Antiguans who could have joined in the fight, but
when asked to do so, replied NO. With a few more good men
at your side, you struggled and fought against the raging
tide. The aristocrats were not pleased, because you were a
poor man, from the other side of the streets. You then
took on the struggle, to pry open the door to Independence
for Antigua & Barbuda. When Britain decided to free us
from her coat hanger, there were many stumbling blocks,
but you persevered, and like Moses, you forged forward, day
after day. You became the first father of our Nation. VC,
you have taken Antigua & Barbuda from a deprived society,
into prosperity. With your strength and courage, you have
made the little dot on the map a Paradise of Wonder.

You have fought a good fight, you have finished the race.
No one will ever be able to take Your place. May your
Soul rest in Eternal Peace. May your name live forever
In the hearts and minds of the true
Antiguans & Barbudans.

Agnes Roberts