The cadet force can help transform lives
Dear Editor,
We must give greater attention to the Jamaica Combined Cadet Force (JCCF), it might very well be the tool to maintain our social fabric. My time as a member of my high school cadet unit was perhaps the most crucial time of my adolescent life. I was quite a disruptive young man, and my teachers faced the brunt of my rowdy behaviour. This changed over time as being a cadet instilled a level of discipline which transformed my very being.
A 2010 University of Southampton study on ‘The societal impact of the cadet forces’ highlighted the positive values that even the most remote association with a cadet unit can add to a young person’s life. The study posited that the positive experiences include opportunities for personal and interpersonal development gains, including increased emotional, cognitive, physical, social skills, along with teamwork focused on improving interpersonal relationships and enhancing peer networks. My life is testament of this study.
The JCCF is a voluntary youth organisation which was founded in 1943. It has been moulding the lives of many young Jamaicans since its inception. Greater value and emphasis must be given to its role in our social structure. The prime minister’s move to introduce the National Service Corps must complement the already-existing JCCF, given the similarities in their function to instil discipline, responsibility and patriotism.
Credit must be given to former ministers of national security Robert Montague and Pearnel Charles Jr for the strident work they have undertaken to revive the cadet force. The organisational restructuring of the JCCF which took place in 2016 is encouraging, as there was evidence that the former structure was outdated. It is my hope that the new organisational structure will prove effective in achieving greater efficiency and execution of the mandate of the organisation.
Additionally, there have been many alumni of the JCCF, like myself, who wanted a structured mechanism to be set up in order to support the various initiatives of the cadet force. I am extremely happy with the establishment of the alumni registry and the JCCF website ( cadetforceja.org), which provides timely updates on the activities surrounding our cadet force.
I am encouraging all young people to get involved and I am pleading to former cadets to support the activities of the JCCF. Our lives were transformed, let us help the current generation.
Leeroy Bailey
Former Corporal
Jamaica Combined Cadet Force
leeroybailey@yahoo.com