Heroes saluted

Scores of Jamaicans from all walks of life came out to show respect to the six men and one woman dubbed official heroes at a ceremony to honour them yesterday.

Inadequate seating wasn't enough to turn patrons away as some persons stood throughout the ceremony, watching in delight.

The salute to the national heroes is held annually at the National Heroes Park. Citations are read in their memory and floral tributes placed on their graves.

There was a noticeable absence of People's National Party (PNP) representatives as Senate President Oswald Harding replaced Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller in laying a wreath on National Hero Norman Manley's grave.

Last night, PNP representatives were unable to explain the party's absence.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Olivia Grange invited those present to reflect on their ancestors who have made them who they are today.

Highlighting the individual contribution of the heroes, she said "today we hail them all and treasure their memories".

She encouraged persons to pledge their support to the grand homecoming in 2012, which will mark the golden jubilee of Jamaica's Independence.