Ancestral Voices

“People do not judge the measure of a man by his accolades, but by the quiet dignity of how he carries himself and the honour with which he serves others.” — Douglas Newton

I first met President The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic in the early 1980s, while he served as aide-de-camp to then Governor General Sir Hugh Springer.

I had just joined the Barbados Advocate as a freelance photographer. The news editor, Mr. Eric Smith, sent reporter Michelle Arthur and me on an assignment to Government House, where Sir Hugh was hosting a reception for local and international dignitaries — ambassadors, high commissioners, and United Nations delegates.

I wanted to capture a photograph of the Governor General in conversation with some of his distinguished guests — the High Commissioners of Canada and the United Kingdom. As a newcomer, I was unsure how to proceed with protocol. I noticed an immaculately dressed officer standing a short distance away and quietly asked Michelle, “Who is he?”

She whispered, “That is Captain Jeffrey Bostic, the Governor General’s aide-de-camp.”

Wanting to do things properly, I approached Captain Bostic and explained what I hoped to photograph. He smiled warmly, then personally escorted me over to Sir Hugh and made the introduction on my behalf.

The Governor General graciously agreed, and I captured the photographs. As we finished, Sir Hugh looked at me, smiled, and said, “You are a very conscientious young man.” I thanked him — and later that evening went home and looked up the word conscientious in the dictionary.

Captain Bostic would go on to rise through the ranks of the Barbados Defence Force, advancing from Captain to Lieutenant Colonel and eventually to Colonel. Throughout his military career, he guided countless recruits in the true spirit of service and love of country. He also provided leadership that helped preserve national security — not only for Barbados, but as part of the Regional Security System.

Transitioning from military service into national leadership, Colonel Bostic entered politics and was elected to Parliament to represent the constituency of the City in the 2018 General Election. These were new horizons, yet he met the challenge with the same poise, grace, and dignity that have always characterized the man.

As a parliamentary representative, he went beyond the call of duty to serve the people of the City faithfully. When he assumed the portfolio of Minister of Health, Colonel Jeffrey Bostic brought decisive leadership and high standards of management to the ministry, particularly during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Barbados and the world confronted one of the most daunting public health crises in modern history.

All Barbadians showed their love for this man, as evidenced by the outpouring of sentiment when they learned he was a candidate for this high office.

Mr. President, you have had a long and distinguished career in service to Barbados — a record that stands as an inspiration to us all.

Our nation could not have made a more fitting choice in entrusting you with the highest office in the land.

It is also significant that your public journey began at the side of Sir Hugh Springer — himself a statesman and a gentleman — a formative experience that prepared you well for the responsibilities you now hold.

President Bostic, I join all Barbadians in congratulating you as you assume the office of Head of State.

I wish you abundant health and continued blessings as you carry forward this new tour of duty — for love of country, and for service to country.

Douglas Newton