The Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz, on Monday unveiled a commemorative plaque honoring the legacy of over 130,000 U.S. military personnel and more than 10,000 Trinbagonians who served in Trinidad and Tobago from the 1940s through the 1970s.
The individuals commemorated played a critical role in safeguarding Allied supply lines during World War II and maintaining vital lines of communication to the Panama Canal.
Commissioned by the American Battle Monuments Commission, the plaque stands as a permanent tribute to the enduring bonds of friendship, shared sacrifice, and cooperation between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago. It highlights the deep and lasting contributions made by both nations in defense of global peace and security during a pivotal time in world history.
The U.S. Embassy hosted a small ceremony at its Queen’s Park West building to unveil the plaque, which will remain a permanent fixture in the embassy’s garden. Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Neidhart de Ortiz and U.S. Senior Defense Official Commander Richard Reyes welcomed Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Defence, the Honourable Wayne Sturge, Chief of Defence Staff Air Vice Marshal Darryl Daniel, and members of the Port of Spain diplomatic corps to the event.
“The installation of this marker reflects a key chapter in U.S.-Trinidad and Tobago relations, highlighting a time when thousands worked side-by-side to protect hemispheric security. From the construction of military bases to the protection of transatlantic shipping routes, the collaboration forged between our two great nations helped safeguard democracy and contributed to the eventual Allied victory,” said Dr. Neidhart de Ortiz.
She also noted the connection between the event and U.S. Memorial Day, observed this year on May 26.
“Memorial Day is when we formally honor the men and women of our armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country. The U.S. Embassy is pleased to have a new permanent marker to serve as a lasting monument to the courage, cooperation, and shared values that bind the United States and Trinidad and Tobago,” she added.
