THE CONSTABULARY FORCE IS NOW 291 MEMBERS STRONGER
On Thursday, October 29, two batches, two campuses and 291 pairs of well-burnished boots came together in perfect unison as several months of training culminated on the grounds of the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ).
The atmosphere was electric, as the beaming pride of the newly minted constables from Batches 165 and 166 mingled with the emotions of family members, friends and other supporters who gathered to celebrate the graduates.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, the Most Honourable Dr Horace Chang; Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr Andrew Lewis, representing the Commissioner of Police; Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr Clifford Blake, Officer in Charge of Inspectorate and Professional Standards Oversight Bureau (IPROB); and Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr Merrick Watson, Officer in Charge of the Training Branch and Director of the NPCJ, along with several other distinguished guests.
The ceremony commenced with a command from the parade commander, followed by the stirring sounds of the JCF Band and the thunderous rumble of boots striking the pavement. Several formations of men and women moved as one, symbolically representing the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) “One Force for Good” doctrine, which was on full display. This demonstration served as a nod to the unity, cohesion and teamwork required to meet the demands of their law enforcement responsibilities.
In his address, Minister Chang highlighted the importance of operating as one cohesive unit.
“What the Police College has demonstrated is their capacity to not only build your skills and develop leadership, but it shows that you can work as a team that will perform outstandingly to help to build our country and make it a better place,” expressed Chang.
The mood then shifted to one of reflection as the valedictorians, Constable Anna-Kaye Miller of Batch 165 and Constable Chad Douglas of Batch 166, shared accounts of their respective training experiences, highlighting the challenges, lessons and memorable moments along the way.
The presentation of awards followed, recognising several members from both batches for their outstanding performances throughout the training programme. The awardees were:
- Best Marksmanship Principles: Constable Alix Bartley of Batch 165 and Constable Tevon Stewart of Batch 166.
- Highest Mark Obtained on Course: Constable Martina Palmer of Batch 165 and Constable Oniel Chusney of Batch 166.
- Best Leadership Qualities: Constable Chevanese Thomas-Cooper of Batch 165 and Constable Alex O’Connor of Batch 166.
- Best All-Round Performance: Constable David Clarke and Constable Alex O’Connor.
At the conclusion of his address, Dr Chang used the opportunity to offer a charge to the newly minted constables, encouraging them to remain focused on the important mission ahead.
“Never lose sight of your mission… you’re joining to make Jamaica safer, to protect life, uphold justice, to give ordinary Jamaicans the freedom to live without fear,” said Chang.
As the 291 members of Batches 165 and 166 marched off the grounds of the Police College and prepared to take up their assignments across the various divisions and stations, they did so equip with the knowledge, skills and discipline needed to serve as “One Force for Good.”
