Sir George Charles and Sir John Compton both led Saint Lucia at critical and crucial times in the island’s history, from colonialism to independence.
Two of Saint Lucia’s finest sons have been officially declared the island’s first National heroes: Sir George F.L. Charles and Sir John Melvin Compton.
The announcement was made on Feb. 22, by Her Excellency the Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, in her capacity as Chancellor of the National Societies of Honor and in accordance with the provisions of Section 25 of the National Honors and Awards Act.
Sir George was Saint Lucia’s first Chief Minister, directly elected by the people after ordinary Saint Lucians gained the right to vote following Adult Suffrage in 1951. He led all the governments subsequently elected until 1964.
Sir John first took office as Chief Minister in 1964 and became the island’s first Premier in 1967 when Saint Lucia gained Associated Statehood. He also became the island’s first Prime Minister at Independence in 1979.
A bust of Sir George F. L. Charles stands at the entrance to the airport at Vigie, named after him, while a statue of Sir John stands in Constitution Park.