The National Police College of Jamaica staged a momentous passing out parade on Thursday, November 5 for the 139 trailblazing men and women of Batch 156, who have now taken up the mantle to serve and protect.

Sergeant Shermaine Hassack, Mistress of Ceremonies for the past 12 years, gracefully chronicled the graduation’s proceedings from the outset to the final moment. Clouds hung low, releasing rain intermittently but that failed to dampen the spirits of the proud graduates, their families, friends
and well-wishers.

Batch 156 commenced their basic training at the Twickenham Park training campus on January 07, 2024, under the guidance of several highly skilled officers and sub-officers including and headed by Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Training Branch and Director of NPCJ Merrick Watson. Batch 156, under the governance of their able trainers, spearheaded several philanthropic outreach activities in and around the Corporate Area and a section of the National Police College; which now boasts a brand new paint job.

We were honoured to have specially invited guests in attendance who arrived momentarily to witness the transition of the newest members of the constabulary. The first arrival, Dr Kevin Blake, Commissioner of Police was capably escorted by Merrick Watson, Assistant Commissioner of Police and Lawrence Ogilvie, Superintendent of Police.

The second whistle signalled the arrival of the second specially invited guest Doctor Horace Chang, Commander of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security. Dr Chang took his place on the saluting deck where he received a sword salute from the parade. Afterwards, the members of the graduating class did their March Pass, signalling their official transformation from Trainee Constables to Constables.

The second segment of the graduation ceremony was ushered in with the Valedictory speech by Constable Renae McIntosh and Constable David Patterson. They proudly recounted stories of resilience, courage and perseverance throughout the stint of their training. In an effort to acknowledge individuals who excelled during training, awards were presented to four outstanding men and women, namely Constable Rayon Edwards – Best Marksmanship Principles, Constable Sherwette Watson – Highest Mark Obtained on Course, Constable Cleon Burgher – Best Leadership Qualities and Constable Jamelia Dale – Best All Round Performance. All six Class Captains were also awarded for taking command of their squads and often standing in the gap for their classroom instructors.

The batch was then charged in the keynote speech by Dr Chang to stand in the gap between law-abiding citizens and criminals who seek to demoralize and break the society. Finally, he reminded them that their transition from civilians to Police Officers is not one of chance but one that will make the Jamaica Constabulary Force, A Force For Good.

Pastor Dr. Gary Badoo Fletcher, Chief Chaplain of the JCF, placed the newest constables before Christ, asking for his constant guidance and protection throughout and during their duties. Signalling the end of the ceremony, batch 156 exhibited highly skilled drill movements in the form of a display that had the crowd buzzing with excitement. Each move was meticulously undertaken with care, agility, and passion as they officially completed their final task as students of the National Police College of Jamaica.