Chief of Defence Staff (Jamaica) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Chief of Defence Staff
Incumbent Rear Admiral Antonette Wemyss Gorman since 21 January 2022
Appointer	Prime Minister
Formation	31 July 1962
First holder	Paul Edwin Crook [de]

The Chief of Defence Staff is the most important military leader in Jamaica. This person is the professional head of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). They are in charge of how the Jamaican military is run and how it operates. It is the highest-ranked military job in the country.

What Does the Chief of Defence Staff Do?

The Chief of Defence Staff has a very important role. They make sure the JDF is ready to protect Jamaica. This includes managing all the soldiers, sailors, and airmen. They also plan and lead military operations. This position is key to keeping Jamaica safe and secure.

Leading the Jamaica Defence Force

The Chief of Defence Staff is like the CEO of the entire Jamaica Defence Force. They oversee everything from training new recruits to planning national security strategies. Their decisions affect all parts of the military. They work closely with the government, especially the Prime Minister of Jamaica, who appoints them.

A History of Leadership: Chiefs of Staff

The role of the top military leader in Jamaica began in 1962. Back then, the position was called the Chief of Staff. Many brave and skilled officers held this title. They helped build and guide the Jamaica Defence Force in its early years. These leaders set the foundation for the military we know today.

From Chief of Staff to Chief of Defence Staff

In December 2007, the name of the top military job changed. It went from "Chief of Staff" to "Chief of Defence Staff." This change reflected a broader role and more responsibilities. The first person to hold the new title was Major General Stewart Emerson Saunders. This update showed the growing importance of the JDF's leader.

Meet the Current Chief of Defence Staff

Today, the Chief of Defence Staff is Rear Admiral Antonette Wemyss Gorman. She took on this important role on January 21, 2022. Rear Admiral Wemyss Gorman is a trailblazer. She is the first woman to hold this top military position in Jamaica's history. Her appointment marks a significant moment for the Jamaica Defence Force.

Images for kids

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  Lieutenant General Rocky Ricardo Meade, a former Chief of Defence Staff.

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  Rear Admiral Antonette Wemyss Gorman, the current Chief of Defence Staff.