Jamaica Police Academy Passing out Parade: “Batch 93”.

On Thursday November 11th starting at exactly 9:30 a.m. one hundred and seventy one student constables gathered at Tranquility Bay in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth for their ‘Passing out Parade’. This ceremony marked their formal transition from civilian to law enforcement officer. After sixteen (16) weeks of training the graduands marched in perfect unison anxiously awaiting their individual drill instructions. The Reviewing Officer was Mrs. Dianne McIntosh Permanent Secretary, representing the Minister of National Security Mr. Dwight Nelson. Throughout the ceremony the graduates stood attentively and periodically demonstrated drills that they were taught during their training and it made evident the emphasis that was placed on precision and discipline.

Treasure Beach provided the perfect tranquil backdrop for the graduation. At intervals when there was silence whilst awaiting the arrivals of officials, the total serenity of the scenery was comforting. The arrival of officials such as: the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of training Mr. Delworth Heath, Acting Commissioner of Police Ms Jeven Bent and Permanent Secretary representing the Minister of National Security Ms Dianne McIntosh. The arrival of these officials was signaled by motor cycle escorts and the sound of police sirens. Upon arrival they each took the Saluting Dias and were awarded the appropriate salutes. The ceremony was narrated by Superintendent James Forbes head of the Community Safety and Security Branch of the JCF and District Constable Sashelle Gooden of the same Branch, throughout the programme they explained the proceedings to the audience.

Following the arrival of the officials the Reviewing Officer gave permission to the Parade Commander to inspect the parade. The Reviewing Officer then inspected the parade and after her satisfaction of their appearance she gave permission for its resumption. After more drills and marches the official ceremony began. Graduates were given awards to acknowledge their participation, completion and exemplary display for the training period.

Persons who were awarded were: Kaydean Cunningham for Best Christian Principles, Ryan Nelson for Core Values and Principles, Dave Jackson for Best Leadership Qualities, Shawn Henry for Highest Mark obtained in Law and Racquel Young for Most Disciplined and Best All Round Performance.

The main address was delivered by Ms. Dianne McIntosh Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security. She highlighted that the role of the police officer is so varied that it is important to be prepared for any eventualities. She emphasised the important traits of a police officer which included: a calm demeanour, confidence, compassion, reliability and patience. She concluded her address by beseeching the graduates to, “Go forward and play your part in securing Jamaica land we love.”