Local News

40 Years Later: What if the Americans never came?

American Helicopter during the 1983 intervention in Grenada

In Grenada, both October 19th and October 25th hold significant historical events that impacted the nation. It is important to recognize and remember both dates for their individual significance.

October 19th, 1983, marks a tragic event when the Prime Minister and several of his cabinet members were killed during a coup d’état. This day represents a period of despair and uncertainty for Grenada, and it is important to acknowledge the loss and the challenges faced by the nation during that time.

October 25th, 1983, on the other hand, represents the day when the United States, along with other Caribbean nations, intervened militarily to restore stability and democracy in Grenada. This intervention helped rescue the country from the hands of the coup leaders and played a significant role in shaping the future of Grenada.

While I agree that we should celebrate both days, we should bear in mind that on October 19, 1983 our people were left in despair not knowing who to look to after fleeing the town of St. George then hearing the news that Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and most of his cabinet members were assassinated. The entire population were put under house arrest and threatened to be shot on site if they were outside of their homes. The morning of October 25, 1983 the nation woke up to the sound of United States helicopter gunship in the sky and Edwin Frank on Radio Free Grenada shouting for the army and the people to block all roads to obstruct the enemy progress. October 25th brought hope to the nation and for the first time in a almost a week Grenadians were able to celebrate in the streets welcoming the Americans.

It is important to note that the events in Grenada had a different context and significance. Celebrating both October 19th and October 25th with October 25th a national holiday allows for a more comprehensive understanding and remembrance of the historical events that occurred in Grenada during that period. It is now 40 years so most of our people only knowledge are from stories told by their parents and friends.

Ultimately, the decision on how to commemorate these dates rests with the people of Grenada and their collective memory and understanding of their history.

By T.L. Neckles

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