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Everyday heroes

Published:Tuesday | October 19, 2010 | 12:00 AM
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Members of the First Battalion Jamaica Regiment take part in the ceremony of investiture and presentation of national awards at King's House in St Andrew yesterday. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer
Myrtle Clarke salutes Governor General Sir Patrick Allen as she is awarded the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service for over 50 years of service to the Scouts Association of Jamaica. Clarke was one of the more than 100 people who received honours during the investiture and presentation of national awards at King's House, St Andrew. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer
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NATION BUILDERS in a multiplicity of disciplines were conferred with national honours yesterday during a ceremony coloured with the usual pomp and pageantry at King's House.

Advertising magnate Arnold Foote led a group of five giants in their respective fields to be bestowed with membership in the Order of Jamaica. Foote was recognised for his contribution to Jamaica and internationally in the fields of advertising, sports and diplomacy.

Dr Marshall Hall, former chief executive officer of the Jamaica Producers Group, was also awarded the nation's fourth-highest award for his sterling contribution in the fields of agriculture, industry and education.

The Very Reverend Monsignor Gregory Ramkissoon and Professor Emeritus Sylvia Wynter were the other two outstanding Jamaicans accorded membership in the Order of Jamaica. Former United States Ambassador Sue Cobb also received the prestigious award for her continuing efforts to promote Jamaica's interests and support its development.

Veteran journalist Ken Chaplin was joined the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander in recognition of his achievements in journalism, public service and sports. Another 17 people received similar awards and 29 order of distinctions.

Theatre director Trevor Nairne was recognised for his contribution to the development of Jamaican theatre. Nairne and 28 other Jamaicans became members of the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer.

Badges of honour for gallantry were bestowed posthumously on Constable Jason Davis and Sergeant Wayne Henriques for their courageous efforts in rushing to the assistance of injured colleagues who came under heavy gunfire from criminals on Mountain View Avenue on May 23. Thunderous applause punctuated the announcement of Annette Howard, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company driver who assisted passengers who had been aboard American Airlines flight 331 which overshot the runway at Norman Manley International Airport on December 22 last year. She also received the Badge of Honour for Gallantry for her valiant effort.

The near three-hour ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps and government officials.