SXMElections.com

PHILIPSBURG--The weather gods looked down kindly on Antonio Rogers as he was sworn in as the new Commander of the Vrijwilligers Korps St. Maarten (VKS) on Saturday afternoon, providing a break on a rainy and windy day. Invited dignitaries including Chiefs of various justice departments, ministers, representatives of the Royal Netherlands Marines, friends and family of Rogers were seated underneath a canopy outside the Government Administration building to watch Rogers take his oath. Members of the VKS and Netherlands Royal Marines stood to attention to welcome the former Police Inspector, who completed 41 years' service in the Police Department, to his new post. A speech was held by former commander Lt. Colonel Jean A. Illidge, who retired from his post last year and had been the one to recommend Rogers for the post, a move that was initially blocked by certain VKS officers. Illidge delivered his retirement speech on March 9, 2013. In his speech on Saturday, he said that he felt that something had been missing on that day, as traditionally, when one leaves a post such as his, another person is present to take over. That other person was finally present on Saturday, in the person of Rogers. Illidge said that Rogers was highly qualified for the post and spoke of Rogers' extensive leadership experience within the Police Force. "Taking the oath is not just another event," Illidge stated. "This ceremony with guests shows the importance the VKS places on the oath." Illidge described the oath as a very meaningful validation of taking up the post. He spoke of its meaning both for Rogers personally and about the expectations the government would place on him. "The oath is binding, there is no digression, no way back," said Illidge. Rogers then stepped forward and swore loyalty to the King and to the Government of St. Maarten in his new position as VKS commander. In his speech, Rogers stated that he proudly accepted the honour of becoming the second ever commander of the VKS. In his speech, he stated that "life is too short for the war of others. I practice acceptance and forgiveness, and let go of the troubles of the past." Rogers spoke of his childhood in Sucker Garden where he was brought up in a humble, God-fearing family. "Growing up, the road was bumpy, sometimes rocky," he said. "But I never gave up." In the process, he said, he became an advocate of the less fortunate. "I have opened doors that were sealed so tight, they were difficult to open. I learned that bigger and stronger is not better, you have to be clever." Rogers spoke of forgiveness as a tactic. "To forgive is to set a prisoner free, only to realise that prisoner is you." Rogers set out the style of leadership he intended to follow at the VKS: "There are no doors, no windows. Everyone is welcome. I will represent the members. This is not just a branch, it's a branch with leaves. Your attitude will determine your altitude." Rogers closed his speech with a mention of his friends and family, and said to be grateful to Jean Illidge "for sticking out his neck for me regardless of the consequences." He then mentioned some of the representatives of partner organisations: "Together, we can accomplish what others can only dream of." Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, acting in her capacity of Minister of General Affairs joked that in her capacity, she was entitled to wear one white glove, just as Rogers had for the ceremony. She showed the audience her hand, which was wrapped in a white bandage after an injury. She gave thanks to Jean Illidge for handing-over to Rogers, and also gave thanks to Acting Commander Paul Martens, who was absent during the ceremony, a fact that was noted by those present. "The VKS is looking at better things to come," she said, "this is an important time, an important season, for the VKS to have strong leadership. The VKS are called upon to defend St. Maarten." She addressed Rogers and said "You accepted this post not for fame or glory, but because you wanted to serve our country." The ceremony finished with the VKS drum band, VKS members and Netherlands Royal Marines marching off past the new commander and dignitaries present. The march led the group to the Catholic Church, where a church service was held to bless the new commander in his posting. The event was closed off by a reception in Sheer restaurant in Front Street, where Rogers mingled with the dignitaries, but equally with the VKS members, who shared a drink to the next chapter in the history of the VKS. Antonio Rogers mentioned 1 time
Sarah Wescot-Williams mentioned 2 times