|
March 29, 2007
Governor and Lt. Governor mourn the death of former St. Croix Administrator Lawrence Bastian
Gov. John deJongh expressed deepest sympathies on Thursday to the family and many friends of Lawrence Bastian having learned of the death of the former St. Croix Administrator after a prolonged illness.
"The work of Lawrence Bastian during his lifetime is noteworthy, deJongh said.
deJongh recalled Bastian’s tireless efforts to advocate for veterans from the Virgin Islands during and after his service as Veterans Affairs Director.
"He was relentless in his commitment to make sure that veterans living in the Virgin Islands received the same level of benefits as those who reside on the
mainland." deJongh also recalled Bastian’s long history of service to numerous organizations on St. Croix in particular, the American Legion Post where he held a number of positions including District Commander.
"He used this position to continue the fight for fair and adequate services for those who served our nation in the Armed
Forces," deJongh pointed out.
His contributions to the Virgin Islands community continued during the term of Gov. Schneider when he served as St. Croix Administrator.
"He was the "go-to" person for the former governor. He was the individual residents turned to when in need of assistance from
government." Bastian’s tirelesswork on behalf of the people and Government of the Virgin Islands will not be forgotten, deJongh said Thursday.
"A power mightier than he has called Lawrence Bastian to his final resting place, our prayer now is for him to be granted eternal rest. While the moment is tinged with great sadness and sorrow, his family should know that a grateful Virgin Islands community joins in mourning their
loss."
Lt. Gov. Gregory R. Francis called Mr. Bastian a "major figure in the veteran
community," and recalled the many times they worked together on issues for veterans and those serving in the military. For many years as American Legion District Commander, he helped to organize activities surrounding Memorial Day, Veterans Days and the observance of September 11. More recently, Francis said Bastian helped lead the charge to build a V.I. military museum and memorial complex to honor the territory’s veterans on St. Croix. Francis also remembered Bastian as being very involved in the community whether it was helping organize Crucian Christmas Festival or voicing his support or opposition on many issues.
|
