ALTHOUGH this is supposed to be a time of rejoicing and sharing good tidings with all our friends and relatives, I find it sorrowful for me as I find myself in a penury position although I had devoted myself and family to doing good in our community. After serving in the Armed Forces during the Second World War, I joined the Guyana Police Force serving relentlessly and with high integrity while others were thinking of filling their pockets from all manner of ways – some legal and some not so legal. I am still trying to collect some part of my pension after serving in the Police Force for 15 years without a blotch on my character. And now the time is near, I am a 90-year-old, and so my friends, I state it clear, I’ll state my case of which I am certain I’ve lived a life and served in all Divisions, and more, much more, I did it my way.
I’ve had a few regrets but too few to remember. I did what I had to do and saw it through without exemption. I planned each move with care along the highway but more, much more I did it my way. There were times when I thought that I could do things but sometimes it was too much and I chewed it up and spat it out. I laughed and cried but more, yes more I cried when I lost my darling wife Noreen – she was an angel. She trained several hairdressers not taking a cent – some of whom have made a name for themselves in countries far and wide. Anyone who has passed through Noreen’s Beauty Salon when visiting Guyana would miss calling in to see her. During the massive disturbances when there was racial fighting on the East Coast, she took the car and went up the East Coast and with Lady Rose collected many Indian children and brought them to town. Where were these billionaire CEOs hiding – I know – they were hustling to move their families out of Guyana but not losing their outrageous salaries. Do we the fighters who tried to save our country not entitled to some remuneration? Are the sugar company CEO and Engineers worth more for handling the finances and inserting in their contracts – in fine writing – clauses to benefit them and their offspring for time immortal? Poor sugar workers. For me to pursue my case legally, I have not the money to hire a good lawyer. I would end up losing more than I might be entitled to. To think I did all that and not in a shy way, Oh no, not me. I did it my way. Today my wife is gone leaving me with a heavy heart for she was my rock of Gibraltar and that is what I loved her for. I must now look forward and my two sons are taking good care of me. My only wish at this time is to have collected some of the money due me for my service in the interest of the country and receive my pension.
Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year!
VICTOR J. FITT
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