PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The United States Tuesday unveiled a commemorative plaque honoring the legacy of more than 130,000 US military personnel and more than 10,000 Trinidadians who have served in the twin island republic dating back from the 1940s through the 1970s.
Chargé d’Affaires of the United States embassy here, Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz and Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Defence, Wayne Sturge, unveiling plague at the ceremony on Tuesday.Chargé d’Affaires of the United States embassy here, Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz said these individuals played a critical role in safeguarding Allied supply lines during World War II and maintaining vital lines of communication to the Panama Canal.
The Embassy said that the plaque, commissioned by the American Battle Monuments Commission, stands as a permanent tribute to the enduring bonds of friendship, shared sacrifice, and cooperation between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago. It honors the deep and lasting contributions made by both nations in defense of global peace and security during a pivotal time in world history.
“The installation of this marker reflects a key chapter in U.S.-Trinidad and Tobago relations, highlighting a time when thousands worked side-by-side to protect hemispheric security,” said de Ortiz as she and US Senior Defense Official Commander Richard Reyes welcomed Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge, Chief of Defence Staff, Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel, and members of the Port of Spain diplomatic corps to the ceremony.
“From the construction of military bases to the protection of transatlantic shipping routes, the collaboration forged between our two great nations helped safeguard democracy and contributed to the eventual Allied victory,” the diplomat added.
She noted the connection of the event with US Memorial Day on Monday, saying “Memorial Day is when we formally honor the men and women of our armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country.
“The US embassy is pleased to have a new permanent marker to serve as a lasting monument to the courage, cooperation, and shared values that bind the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.”
