Major Basil Jarrett returns to JDF

Major Basil Jarrett has returned to the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) as the Civil/Military Cooperation Officer, which took effect on August 23, 2024. He has been commissioned to the Jamaica National Reserve (JNR).

Major Jarrett, who previously led the JDF's communications efforts between 2009 and 2021, is the current Director of Communications at the Major Organized Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA), a role that he will continue whilst serving at the JNR.

“Lieutenant Roxene Nickle, who is currently serving as a Reserve Officer, will also transition into the Regular Force, as the JDF seeks to bolster its media and communications portfolio and strengthen its engagement with the public,” the military said in a press release.

Lt Nickle is a communication consultant with 30 years of experience in the field. She has a range of communications skills and achievements in radio, television, and corporate consultancy. Her last appointment in the public sector was Communication and Marketing Advisor in the Ministry of Legal and Constitutional Affairs.

JDF said Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman welcomes Major Jarrett back to the JDF, noting his vital area of expertise, and also acknowledged Lt Nickle's timely transition.

“I have no doubt that their skills and expertise will enhance the JDF's communication apparatus as we navigate an increasingly complex information environment,” the JDF chief said.

During his earlier tenure with the JDF, Major Jarrett was instrumental in modernising the JDF's public affairs operations and significantly enhanced the force's engagement with the public and the media, the military noted.

Following his retirement in 2021, he transitioned to the civilian sector as a communications consultant, but remained in law enforcement as the Director of Communications at MOCA.

Here, he continued to excel in strategic communications leadership, playing a pivotal role in crafting MOCA's communications strategy around high-profile financial crimes and corruption cases, and helping to bolster the agency's reputation as a leading force in public integrity.

“The military has always been near and dear to me, and I look forward to once again applying my expertise in strategic communications to further strengthen the force's connection with the public,” said Jarrett.

My mission is to ensure that our messaging reflects the values and professionalism of the men and women who serve Jamaica every day, and to support the Chief of Defence Staff in navigating the evolving challenges of modern communications."

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