I am nominating, Robert Irving Seymour, for recognition during the 2021 National Heroes Day ceremony. My father began his seafaring journeys before I was born, with his first ventures taken as a very young man. He travelled to sea leaving behind family, friends and the "known" and understanding that there was a possibility that he may not return home. As he got older his continued personal sacrifice was based in desire/need to provide for his wife and growing family, requiring him to spend many years on the open waters travelling from port to port as a seaman. Information of my fathers travels and job on the ship are scarce. He concluded sailing sometime in the late 50's or early 60's and travelled on National Bulk Carriers. When my father retired from sailing he eventually established an auto-mechanic shop in George Town, Grand Cayman. He was well-known and many across the island brought their vehicles to be repaired. It is thought that his "body work" and welding skills were developed during his time on the ship. Sadly, he passed unexpectedly on August 16, 1998. While his story is so similar and resembles that of many other seafarers, their decision to venture into the unknown is what helped to shape our people and the Cayman that we know and love today.

I am nominating, Robert Irving Seymour, for recognition during the 2021 National Heroes Day ceremony. My father began his seafaring journeys before I was born, with his first ventures taken as a very young man. He travelled to sea leaving behind family, friends and the "known" and understanding that there was a possibility that he may not return home. As he got older his continued personal sacrifice was based in desire/need to provide for his wife and growing family, requiring him to spend many years on the open waters travelling from port to port as a seaman. Information of my fathers travels and job on the ship are scarce. He concluded sailing sometime in the late 50's or early 60's and travelled on National Bulk Carriers. When my father retired from sailing he eventually established an auto-mechanic shop in George Town, Grand Cayman. He was well-known and many across the island brought their vehicles to be repaired. It is thought that his "body work" and welding skills were developed during his time on the ship. Sadly, he passed unexpectedly on August 16, 1998. While his story is so similar and resembles that of many other seafarers, their decision to venture into the unknown is what helped to shape our people and the Cayman that we know and love today.