Dear Editor,

Permit me space to publicly record a few words of congratulations to the recently promoted members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and particularly my two with whom I shared tenancy of the social and academic space afforded by St Mary High School, between 1980 – 1985: Assistant Commissioners McArthur Sutherland and Calvin Allen.

These men have given their lives to public service and several generations of Jamaicans through tough times. It is common knowledge that many ambitious young men of rural origins, imbued with a desire for justice, have sought to serve by entering the police force. Less known is the hardship — economic, personal and emotional — which they have had to endure. They often have to ‘cut dem road as dem walk’; charting a course in the melee of dangers that come with being a cop in Jamaican landscape.

They have proven that it is possible to serve and be successful. Undoubtedly, credit must be given to their families, early socialisation and network of supporters over the years, as no man is an island. While Assistant Commissioner Allen readily speaks to the road he has travelled, I believe the youth of our nation would be well served to hear more of the path that has taken McArthur Sutherland — a son of Retreat, St Mary — to his current position.

I join a host of individuals in saluting these two gentlemen in their achievement — a testimony of faith and courage.

Gregory John Roberts, PhD

Birmingham, UK

g3210ster@gmail.com