THE EDITOR, Sir:
I was impressed by the overall handling by both the government and our utility companies in the recent hurricane and also quite surprised on how quickly things are being dealt with. I am also certain that the USA did nothing better than we have done so far.
The rumour that "Ivan was too scared to enter this island ......" is somewhat amusing. Many people have suffered horrendously because of this hurricane, but many, due to the brave actions of others, owe a lot to anonymous heroes for our quickly recovering infrastructure.
There are people who are not even noticed who demonstrated superb leadership and dedication to those they serve. It is also true and regrettable they may never be thanked.
For example I live in a complex where one of my neighbours is a Mr Williams who is a deputy director of The Water Commission. He appears to leave for the office daily before most of us awake and return late each evening.I personally witnessed this man on Saturday morning when the weather was particularly horrible and dangerous, walking out in old shorts, an inadequate umbrella and rubber boots to join a Director of the Water Commission to personally inspect the water infrastructure as a pair on foot. It is obvious that these men personally took it upon themselves to look after their customers' interests, rather than their own. Notably they did not ask their junior employees to venture out in their place and demonstrated the kind of "leading from the front" that is both rare and courageous.
As both a neighbour of Mr Frankie Williams and also a customer of the Water Commission I wish to publicly express both my thanks and personal admiration for both of these decent men.
I am etc,
COLIN HENDRICK
Colinh@softhome.net
Parklands South
2-4 Merrick Avenue
Kingston 10
