GUARDIANS AND GIVERS OF LIFE: OFFICERS WHO SERVED BEYOND THE CALL
As Jamaica celebrates National Heroes Day, the nation pauses to honour not only the heroes of our past but also those who continue to serve with distinction, courage, and compassion today. Among them are Sergeant Kidan McCoy, Cons. Gavin Hall, Cons. Shackeem Hill, and Constable Shaniah Salmon of the Kingston Western Police Division, whose selfless act of service recently brought new life—and new meaning—to the word heroism.
On Tuesday, October 14, all four police officers were on duty when they received a report of a woman in distress at her home. Two constables immediately visited the location to assess the situation and discovered that the woman was in active labour. Without delay, they radioed their findings to Sergeant McCoy and Constable Salmon, who quickly responded to assist.
With no medical professionals present and time running short, the team relied on teamwork, quick thinking, and courage in the face of pressure. Constable Salmon drew upon her motherly instincts to guide her colleagues through the stages of the delivery process. Under her direction—and with the steady leadership of Sergeant McCoy—the team successfully assisted the woman in delivering a healthy baby girl, transforming an ordinary workday into one of profound humanity and compassion.
Reflecting on the extraordinary experience, Sergeant McCoy admitted, “I was in total shock; it was unpredictable and unexpected. But in that moment, we knew we had to stay calm and do what was necessary to help.” He described the experience as both “exciting” and a proud milestone in his policing career, declaring the newborn a “true JCF baby”. For Constable Salmon, the moment was deeply personal and emotional.
“I was elated… happy to be a part of the experience,” she said with a smile. Her calm guidance proved vital in ensuring the safe delivery, demonstrating maturity and presence of mind far beyond her years of service.
The members have since remained in contact with the new mother, who safely delivered her third child. Both Sergeant McCoy and Constable Salmon expressed their joy in knowing that the mother and baby are doing well — and their gratitude for being a part of such a life-changing event.
Sergeant McCoy emphasised that the JCF’s mission extends beyond enforcing the law. “Our job isn’t just about policing—it’s about serving and protecting in every capacity, even in the most unexpected moments,” he said.
Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that true heroism often happens far from the spotlight. It lives in the quiet courage of law enforcement officers who respond to every call with heart and humanity — police officers like Sergeant McCoy and Constables Hall, Hill and Salmon, who embody the finest traditions of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
Their story is more than a single act of courage — it is a reflection of the unwavering dedication that defines the men and women of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Every day, across communities, police officers quietly become heroes in their own right — whether by saving lives, resolving conflicts, protecting the vulnerable or simply offering comfort in a moment of need. As the nation celebrates National Heroes Day, we salute not only Sergeant McCoy, Constable Hall, and Hill and Salmon’s extraordinary service, but also every member of the JCF who continues to serve with integrity, compassion, and courage. Together, they remind us that heroism is not just found in history books — it lives among us, in those who choose to serve and protect Jamaica each day.
This is a true reflection of what it means to be A Force for Good.
