U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a series of official proclamations to recognize important events and individuals during the month of May 2025, underscoring the Virgin Islands’ commitment to honor service, safety, and public service excellence.
Memorial Day – Monday, May 26, 2025
In solemn remembrance, Governor Bryan has proclaimed Monday, May 26, 2025, as “Memorial Day” in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This annual observance honors the over 140,000 brave service members, including those from the Virgin Islands, who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom, and the more than 95,000 who remain missing in action.
“We pay homage to the proud Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who have given their full measure of devotion to our great Nation,” said Governor Bryan. “In their honor, we renew our commitment to uphold the ideals they died to preserve.”
All residents, as well as civic, patriotic, and educational organizations, are encouraged to conduct appropriate ceremonies and observances. In alignment with the national tradition, the Governor joins the President of the United States in directing that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon, and then raised to full-staff until sunset on Memorial Day.
National Safe Boating Week – May 17–23, 2025
Governor Bryan has also proclaimed May 17–23, 2025, as “National Safe Boating Week” in the U.S. Virgin Islands, highlighting the critical importance of safe boating practices.
With an average of 650 boating-related deaths annually in the United States—75% of which are due to drowning—this week serves as a reminder that many of these tragic incidents can be prevented. Most boating accidents stem from human error or poor judgment, not mechanical failure or environmental conditions.
A significant number of lives could be saved each year if boaters simply wore life jackets. Governor Bryan urges all Virgin Islanders who enjoy time on the water to practice safe and responsible boating, including the consistent use of life jackets.
Career Observance of Carmen Rodriguez – May 20, 2025
Governor Bryan is proud to recognize the distinguished career of Carmen Rodriguez, proclaiming Tuesday, May 20, 2025, as “Observance of the Career of Carmen Rodriguez.”
A graduate of St. Joseph High School (Class of 1989) in St. Croix, Carmen Rodriguez began her public service career in 1990 with the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL-ETA). Over her decades of service, she received multiple accolades, including Employee of the Year (1993 and 2015), Secretary’s Exceptional Achievement Award (2018), and the Rico Barrasso Excellence in Public Service Award (2018), among many others.
Her unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and professional excellence were instrumental in supporting not only the national workforce system, but also in providing expert assistance to the Virgin Islands Department of Labor, especially in times of great need such as the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
“Carmen Rodriguez has exemplified the highest standards of federal service and is a true daughter of the Virgin Islands,” said Governor Bryan. “Her career is a model of dedication, service, and compassion.”
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. remains committed to recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of those who serve their country, promote public safety, and demonstrate excellence in public service. These proclamations reflect the values of honor, respect, and civic responsibility held dear by the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov