The Premier and Government Ministers were out yesterday to show their support for the Island's 'unsung heroes' at a Seniors' Week Award Presentation.

Premier Dr. Ewart Brown, Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation Dale Butler, Minister of Health Nelson Bascome and Opposition Leader Kim Swan all joined to pay tribute to the Island's seniors and their contributions to the country.

At the two-and-a-half-hour ceremony, 27 seniors were honoured, including Vera Commissiong, one of the first black desk receptionists at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.

She said: "We (seniors) have had to sacrifice and do things in life to make sure that young people can come up and benefit. All the sacrifices we did, made it a better place for people like yourself and my grandchildren."

Mrs. Commissiong, who received an award from Mr. Butler, said: "It's an honour and a privilege and a pleasant surprise. You do things in life and never think anyone is paying attention, then someone calls you up and wants to give you an award."

Awards were also given to five special couples in the community, including Betty-Doreen and Ivor Reid, who have been married for 49 years. They both believe in helping "downtrodden and overlooked" members of the community and throughout it all still manage to keep their marriage going strong.

Mr. Butler told the audience: "For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe our seniors our thanks and heartfelt salute.

"Throughout our history, seniors have achieved much for our families, our communities, and our country. That remains true today and gives us a good reason to reserve a special week in honour of the senior citizens who mean so much on our Island. They are rich in oceans of wisdom, experience and knowledge."

The Premier will also be present at the annual Senior's Tea event on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4p.m.