In a notable announcement, Bahamas’ Governor General Dame Cynthia “Mother” Pratt revealed that three distinguished Bahamians, including the Secretary to the Cabinet, have been honored in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours.
The King’s Birthday Honours are part of a United Kingdom tradition that dates back to at least 1860 during Queen Victoria’s reign. These honors are bestowed on the sovereign’s official birthday and form one of the two annual honors lists in the British honors system, the other being the New Year’s Honours List.
Sir Gerald ‘Gerry’ DeVeaux Knighted for Services to Humanity and Entertainment
Gerald ‘Gerry’ DeVeaux, a celebrated Bahamian songwriter, producer, and creative director, has been conferred the prestigious title of Knight Bachelor. This honor recognizes DeVeaux’s significant contributions to humanity and the entertainment industry.
Sir Gerry DeVeaux, as he will now be known, has an impressive career. He has served as a contributing editor for the style magazine Tatler and as a style consultant for MTV Networks, co-hosting shows like MTV Style and contributing to programs such as Who Wore What.
DeVeaux has also achieved considerable success in the music industry, with multi-platinum hits like “Be My Baby” for French singer/actress Vanessa Paradis and international hits for Lenny Kravitz, including “Heaven Help.” His work extends to writing and producing hits for Kylie Minogue and Angie Stone, whom he signed to his label, DeVox Records. Notably, the Angie Stone album Black Diamond, co-produced by DeVeaux, was voted Best Album of the Year by Billboard and achieved international platinum status. He has also written hits for Chaka Khan, including “Never Miss the Water.”
Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George
Two other Bahamians have been honored with the Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George for their exceptional public service.
Marsha Nicole Campbell, the Secretary to the Cabinet, has been recognized for her dedication to public service. While Dr. Franklin Walkine has been honored for his contributions to public health. Dr. Walkine’s company, Air Ambulance Service provides critical medical transport, offering access to emergency and specialized care within The Bahamas, Turks & Caicos Islands, and Florida. His service ensures that essential medical care is available even in remote locations.
The Order of St Michael and St George is bestowed in recognition of extraordinary service in a foreign country or in relation to foreign and Commonwealth affairs.
Read: Four Grenadians recognized in King Charles III’s 2024 Birthday Honours
