STATEMENT OF CONDOLENCE THE LATE CARMENCITA WOODS
IN RECOGNITION OF HER INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TO ANGUILLA DURING THE 1967 REVOLUTION
The Government and people of Anguilla join in expressing our sympathies on the passing of Ms. Carmencita Woods.
In 1961 Carmen joined the St Kitts Nevis and Anguilla Police force and in early 1967 she came back to Anguilla on vacation and was asked by Mr. James Ronald Webster to remain at home and join the Anguilla Police Force. She agreed. Carmen was serving as an officer in the Anguilla Police Force when the unrest that would eventually lead secession from St Kitts Nevis, came to a head. She was a loyal supporter of Mr. Webster and later became a member of the Anguilla Peace Keeping Force - the group of persons given the responsibility of maintaining law and order in Anguilla after the St. Kitts and Nevis Police were evicted on 30 May 1967.
In later years and up until her death, Carmen became a leading social activist, becoming well known for speaking out on issues facing her island and its people.
The Executive Council has given its approval for the holding of a National Funeral for this dedicated Anguillian freedom fighter. In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the Anguilla Revolution, and acting upon a recommendation from the Anguilla Honours and Awards Committee, Executive Council has also agreed to the exceptional conferring of the Anguilla Badge of Honour and Queen’s Certificate upon the late Carmencita Woods. The ceremony will take place during the Funeral Service on Sunday June 25th, 2017.
As a mark of respect, flags will be flown at half-mast on Thursday June 22nd and Friday June 23rd, 2017. A Police Guard of Honour will be drawn up at the Church and a contingent of uniformed officers will bear the body in and out of the church and at the graveside. The Casket will be draped with the national flag.
To the family and relatives of this proud Anguillian, we pray God’s guidance during these very difficult moments.
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Hon. Cora Richardson Hodge
Minister of Home Affairs