Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller paid tribute to the men and women of the armed forces and emergency services who received Diamond Jubilee Medals for their distinguished service and contribution to Jamaica. “Your service and the quality of the contribution you have made to our country over the past 50 years is a fine example of patriotism that makes us proud,” said the Prime Minister. She was addressing the awardees at the presentation ceremony of the Medal in Recognition of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee held at King’s House on Friday, December 14.

“With Her Majesty commemorating her 60 year reign and Jamaica our 50th anniversary of political independence, this special ceremony, is a fitting recognition of the strong historical connection between Jamaica and Britain,” said the Prime Minister. She congratulated the medal recipients and stated that as proud members of the armed forces and emergency services, they have demonstrated through discipline and application the importance and value of working together as a team.

Sixty persons were awarded Diamond Jubilee Medals by His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, Governor General, for having rendered service of twenty five years or more. These included men and women from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF), Department of Correctional Service (DCS), Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) and the Ministry of Health.