BY INDY MAEALASIA

AMONG the six recipients of the 2024 Independence Honours and Awards was 24-year-old Lewis Mechaiah, who stepped forward to accept the Solomon Islands Medal (Silver) on behalf of his late father, Stephanas Steve Mechaiah.

In front of a large crowd at the 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations held at the National Stadium on Monday, Lewis received the medal with pride from Governor General David Tiva Kapu.

The late Stephanas Mechaiah, born in 1969, was honoured for his long and dedicated service to the Correctional Service of Solomon Islands (CSSI).

He joined the service in 1990 and faithfully served for more than three decades. Throughout his service, he rose through the ranks and became the commandant at the Tetere Correctional Centre, Guadalcanal until his retirement.

For Lewis, who is also a CSSI officer, the rare moment was emotional, stirring up memories of his father’s devotion to duty.

“It is sad that my father isn’t here to receive this himself. Even though I accepted the medal on his behalf, it felt like I wasn’t worthy, because it truly belonged to him,” Lewis said.

Lewis expressed his gratitude to the government for recognising his father’s contributions to the nation.

“This award means a lot to our family. It shows that my father’s hard work and sacrifice did not go unnoticed. We’re truly thankful to the government for this recognition,” Lewis added.

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