Caymanians in the Fight for Freedom: A Night of Honour and Remembrance

By Christopher Tobutt

The twelfth annual Cayman Islands Veterans Gala, held on Saturday, October 11th, 2025, at the Grand Cayman Marriott Ballroom, was a stirring tribute to the men and women who have served in uniform—both at home and abroad. With the theme “Caymanians in the Fight for Freedom,” the evening celebrated the proud legacy of Caymanian service in global conflicts, reminding all in attendance that even the smallest nations can make mighty contributions.

From the moment the cocktail hour began at 6 p.m., the ballroom buzzed with camaraderie and pride. Uniformed officers from the Cayman Islands Regiment, Police Service, Fire Service, Coast Guard, and Cadet Corps mingled with veterans from across the globe, many now calling Cayman home. Dignitaries including Her Excellency Governor Jane Owen, Premier Hon. André Ebanks, and Deputy Premier Hon. Gary Rutty were warmly welcomed, their presence underscoring the national significance of the event.

As tradition dictates, the first poppies of the season were ceremonially pinned on Governor Owen and Premier Ebanks, marking the launch of the annual poppy appeal. The gesture was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.

Andrew McLaughlin, President of the Cayman Islands Veterans Association, took the podium. With a twinkle in his eye, McLaughlin transformed the Marriott Ballroom into an officer’s mess, complete with playful fines for breaches of “mess etiquette.” Guests chuckled as two kilt-clad veterans were fined for “wearing skirts,” with all proceeds going to good causes. The levity, however, never overshadowed the solemnity of the occasion.

One of the most moving elements of the evening was the table set aside for fallen comrades. Each item on the table held symbolic meaning, and the lit candle served as a gentle beacon of remembrance—“to keep their memories burning brightly in our hearts.”

A special tribute was paid to Graham Walker, a beloved driving instructor and former member of the UK’s armed forces, who passed away earlier this year. His absence was deeply felt, and his memory honoured with grace. He had served the Veterans Associan faithfully for many years.

The heart of the evening belonged to the stories—those of Caymanians who served in conflicts spanning centuries. Mr. Loxely Banks, a respected historian, delivered a sweeping account of Caymanians in military service, beginning with those who fought in the American Civil War and the Spanish-American War. He traced the lineage through the First World War, “the war to end all wars,” and into the Second World War, where Caymanians fought valiantly in both the Pacific and European theatres.

Banks noted that the Cayman Islands had the highest per capita participation of any Caribbean nation during WWII. He also highlighted the bravery of Caymanian seafarers, who, though not enlisted, risked their lives to transport vital supplies across dangerous waters. “There were many Caymanians who fought in Vietnam,” Banks added,

One of the most powerful testimonies came from James T. Conolly, a Vietnam veteran originally from East End. Seated proudly with his family, Conolly recounted his journey from Cayman to Brooklyn, and then to the battlefield. He received a Purple Heart for his injuries, but the scars of war lingered long after the medals were awarded.

“When I got back home, they didn’t deprogramme me,” he said quietly. “My wife and daughters had to deal with a ‘crazy’ father they didn’t understand.” His candid reflections on PTSD – a cause he has steadfastly championed - and the long road to healing resonated deeply. “It’s a long journey and I’m still fighting the fight,” he added. “My family is here tonight. God is good all the time.”

The evening also touched on the Falklands War. Peter Hughes spoke of the conflict and named Derek Larner as one of Cayman’s own who served during the campaign to reclaim the islands.

Andrew McLaughlin shared his own experience in the Bosnian conflict, recalling the moment when precision-guided missiles brought an end to hostilities. “They all went home,” he said, a simple phrase that carried the weight of peace hard-won.

At 10:05 p.m., guests adjourned to the dance floor, the music rising in celebration of lives lived in service and sacrifice. The gala was not just a night of honour—it was a living testament to Cayman’s enduring spirit.

In a world often defined by its giants, the Cayman Islands stands tall through the courage of its people. As the candle flickered on the remembrance table and poppies adorned lapels, one truth rang clear: freedom is never free, and Caymanians have always been willing to pay the price.