I met with Brigadier Eon Clarke, Acting Chief of Defence Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force, to review the work and priorities of the Force and its role in securing our nation. The JDF defends Jamaica’s sovereignty, secures our borders, protects our airspace and maritime domain, and supports law enforcement in maintaining public safety. It also plays a central role in disaster response and in ensuring the continuity of government during national emergencies by safeguarding constitutional authority and essential services. I expressed sincere gratitude to the officers and soldiers for their service during Hurricane Melissa. Many continued to serve and assist citizens while managing personal loss and disruption caused by the hurricane. In the year ahead, the JDF will continue infrastructure development across its bases.(Andrew Holness)