MARIGOT, Saint Martin--French Saint Martin marked Bastille Day on July 14 with an official ceremony on the Marigot waterfront, where elected officials, public servants, community leaders and cultural organizations gathered to commemorate France’s national day.
The ceremony featured remarks by CTJ President Jahid Hamlet, President of the Collectivité Louis Mussington, parliamentarians Annick Petrus and Frantz Gumbs, and Deputy Prefect Marie-Hildegarde Chauveau. Their addresses reflected on the historical importance of July 14, republican values and the role of public service in the territory.
As part of the observance, the Collectivité also recognized several individuals and organizations for their contributions to economic, cultural and community life.
Entrepreneur Antoine Baker was honored for his professional journey and contribution to the territory. The cultural association Grain d’Or was recognized for the achievements of its dancers and its role in promoting Saint Martin’s culture. The Saint Martin Carnival Festivities Association was also honored for organizing Carnival and preserving the island’s cultural heritage.
The ceremony included the presentation of a book titled “Empreintes,” produced by Friendly Book editions. The publication highlights the careers and service of 12 territorial employees who worked for the former municipality and later the Collectivité.
Those recognized were Marie-Line Hughes-Richards, Lucien Griffith, Christine Bosqui, Alex Richards, Albert Conner, Fabien Gumbs, Lou Baly, Brenda Ellis, Joe Jules, Delphine Baray, Philomena Plaisant and Lucien Champare, who was represented by his son Christophe.
The honorees were recognized for their years of service and their contributions to the development and daily functioning of the institution.
The Bastille Day observance concluded with congratulations to all those honored and recognition of their role in strengthening public service, culture and community life in French Saint Martin.
