Hoyle Field Rededicated As ‘Wharton Field’ In Memory Of Amb. D. Bruce Wharton

By Ross Moyo

The U.S. Embassy in Harare has rededicated Hoyle Field, 3 Tina Close, Chisipite as ‘Wharton Field’ in honour of the late Ambassador D. Bruce Wharton. Ambassador Pamela Tremont made the announcement during a Celebration of Life held yesterday from 10 AM to 12 PM.

The event drew family friends, civil society, media, creatives, and U.S. Embassy Locally Employed Staff. Master of Ceremonies Primrose Matambanadzo, who served as Wharton’s Residence Manager from 2012 to 2015, opened proceedings.

Matambanadzo described Wharton as “a warm, kind, gentle diplomat” who “wanted to know each person” and their family life. She said he hosted many events at the residence, including Fourth of July gatherings and Vintage Car Club meetings, and was passionate about motorbikes and vintage cars.

Julie Wharton’s message was read by family friend Penny Stone. Julie thanked Zimbabweans “for guiding him, for teaching him, for supporting him” and for “riding motorcycles with him, fishing and playing tennis with him, teaching him the ins and outs of rugby.”

Rebecca Zeigler Mano, Founder of Education Matters/USAP Community School, said USAP “would not have existed without Bruce.” She recounted how Wharton gave her the Embassy library as an advising centre and an assistant, and gave staff “operator’s licences” to act “if it’s ethical, if it’s within Mission, and it’s in budget.”

Wharton served as inaugural board chair of Education Matters until months before his death. Zeigler Mano said he started a tradition of visa days with “balloons and streamers and brownies” for students going to the U.S.

Vincent Kahiya, former Editor-in-Chief of The Standard, NewsDay and The Independent, said Wharton “redefined diplomatic service in Zimbabwe.” Kahiya cited Wharton’s support for the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe and leadership training for journalists in 2012.

Chloe Clark, speaking for Locally Employed Staff, said Wharton “knew everyone’s name and job titles” and hosted small teas with staff. She said he supported the Embassy soccer team “Obama Boys” and ate with staff “under the trees.”

The Bruce Wharton Memorial Scholarship Fund has raised over US$20,000, organisers said. Donations can be made via Ecocash 20316 or www.edmattersafrica.org/donate. A memorial grove has also been dedicated at USAP Community School.