Anguilla’s 1967 Revolution foot soldier and acknowledged participant in the invasion of St. Kitts on June 10 that year, Collins Hodge, passed away on August 24 at the Princess Alexandra Hospital at the age of 72.
The late Anguillian freedom fighter, formerly of Rey Hill, was among a number of patriotic young Anguillians who had thrown their support behind the island’s revolutionary leader, the late James Ronald Webster, and other leaders against the Central Government in St. Kitts. He was part of an attack on St. Kitts aimed at enforcing the Anguilla Revolution. Although it failed, it nevertheless sent a strong message to the world about the seriousness of the people of Anguilla in maintaining their freedom from oppression and exercising their right of self-determination.
Collins and a number of his fellow invaders were caught in St. Kitts, imprisoned and tried in the High Court there but without conviction. The prosecution could not prove its case against his companions, and they were therefore set free, but were re-arrested and charged again.
Collins attracted the most publicity among them having undergone a most drilling and vigorous cross-examination, on the witness stand, conducted for three days by the widely-known Guyanese Prosecutor F.R. Wills. Collins, who never wavered under the cross-examination, caused much frustration for the prosecution and was eventually set free.
He promptly made good his escape to Anguilla and was received and celebrated with much jubilation by the people of the island. He remained in his homeland for sometime before taking up residence in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
It was only in May 2016 that he was awarded the Anguilla Badge of Honour and Queen Certificate for his patriotism, bravery and participation in the 1967 Anguilla Revolution. However, he arrived a day late, having to travel from St. Thomas via Tortola. His awards were accepted on his behalf from Chief Minister, Mr. Victor Banks, by his sister, Ms. Valerie Hodge.
Collins involvement in the Anguilla Revolution is well covered in the book: Anguilla’s Battle For Freedom 1967-1969 written by Mr. Colville Betty, OBE and Mr. Nat Hodge, MBE. He will be accorded a National Funeral.
The Anguillian offers profound condolences to his family.
