Virgin Islands Legislature Honors Memorial Day Heroes and Mental Health Awareness
May 27, 2025 | 2025 Legislature, Virgin Islands
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During a recent meeting of the Virgin Islands Legislature's Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services, members reflected on significant themes of remembrance and health awareness. The meeting, held on May 27, 2025, began with a tribute to fallen heroes in honor of Memorial Day, emphasizing the sacrifices made by local veterans.
Senators paid homage to three local heroes: Emil White, Kendall Emmanuel George, and Viggo Sua. Emil White, who lost his life at a naval station in Puerto Rico at just 22 years old, was remembered fondly by colleagues and friends. The legislature also honored Kendall Emmanuel George, a Vietnam War veteran, by renaming Route 107 in Coral Bay, Saint John, in his memory. George, who died at 24, was laid to rest in 1966. Viggo Sua, the first Virgin Islander to die in the Korean War, was similarly commemorated with the renaming of East Route Road 10 on Saint John. Sua, who was only 21 when he was killed, received multiple honors for his service, including the Korean Service Medal.
In addition to honoring these veterans, the meeting highlighted ongoing health initiatives. May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, with a call to address the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Legislators stressed the importance of providing access to mental health care and support for individuals and families affected by conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression. The Commissioner of Health and Human Services was present to support these initiatives, reinforcing the commitment to prioritize mental well-being across the territory.
The meeting also marked National High Blood Pressure Education Month, underscoring the urgency of addressing this critical health issue in the Virgin Islands, where high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for poor health and early death. Additionally, the legislature announced plans for an annual event honoring senior citizens, recognizing their contributions and resilience.
Overall, the discussions during this meeting not only honored the sacrifices of local heroes but also emphasized the importance of mental and physical health in the Virgin Islands community. As the legislature moves forward, these themes of remembrance and health awareness will continue to shape their initiatives and policies.
Senators paid homage to three local heroes: Emil White, Kendall Emmanuel George, and Viggo Sua. Emil White, who lost his life at a naval station in Puerto Rico at just 22 years old, was remembered fondly by colleagues and friends. The legislature also honored Kendall Emmanuel George, a Vietnam War veteran, by renaming Route 107 in Coral Bay, Saint John, in his memory. George, who died at 24, was laid to rest in 1966. Viggo Sua, the first Virgin Islander to die in the Korean War, was similarly commemorated with the renaming of East Route Road 10 on Saint John. Sua, who was only 21 when he was killed, received multiple honors for his service, including the Korean Service Medal.
In addition to honoring these veterans, the meeting highlighted ongoing health initiatives. May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, with a call to address the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Legislators stressed the importance of providing access to mental health care and support for individuals and families affected by conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression. The Commissioner of Health and Human Services was present to support these initiatives, reinforcing the commitment to prioritize mental well-being across the territory.
The meeting also marked National High Blood Pressure Education Month, underscoring the urgency of addressing this critical health issue in the Virgin Islands, where high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for poor health and early death. Additionally, the legislature announced plans for an annual event honoring senior citizens, recognizing their contributions and resilience.
Overall, the discussions during this meeting not only honored the sacrifices of local heroes but also emphasized the importance of mental and physical health in the Virgin Islands community. As the legislature moves forward, these themes of remembrance and health awareness will continue to shape their initiatives and policies.
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