Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, O.R.T.T., President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago extends condolences to the family, friends and the carnival community on the passing of Mr. Jason Griffith, Traditional Sailor Mas creator, masquerader and bandleader.
Having first participated as a masquerader in 1946, Jason Griffith was actively involved in the production of headpieces for the Fancy Sailor Mas earning the respect and admiration from his peers for his intricately designed master head pieces.
He worked with several bandleaders and in 1949 launched his own band the U.S.S. Sullivan. He continued to produce sailor mas headpieces and was well known as a pioneer in traditional sailor mas community especially in Belmont, Trinidad and Tobago.
Griffith has been awarded many accolades for his work over the years and in 1990 was awarded the Hummingbird Medal Gold in the sphere of culture at the National Awards Ceremony.
May his soul rest in peace.
Photo courtesy Trinisoca.com