The month of August marks 50 years since the historic entry of women into active military service in the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). These pioneering women paved the way for hundreds of other women to serve in various units across the JDF, contributing in operational, technical, and administrative roles.

1975 was the International Year of the Woman, and our then President, Beverley Manley Duncan, made the call publicly and advocated through former Prime Minister Michael Manley to allow women to serve in the JDF. The JDF responded favourably, and on August 11, 1976, the first four women were enlisted. Beverley Manley Duncan said, “This is one of the achievements of Jamaican Women that I am proud of as we continue to move towards gender parity in our country. I look forward to joining the women of the JDF at their Gala and Awards Ceremony this evening.”

The current President of the PNP Women’s Movement Patricia Duncan Sutherland, said, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations and commendation to all the women who have served and continue to serve in one of our nation’s most noble institutions. You have not only contributed to nation building but have served as an example to many young Jamaican women to demonstrate that our potential as women is limitless and our impact is far-reaching and touches all spheres of our society.” 

The fact that Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman is the Chief of Defence Staff is a powerful testament to the remarkable strides women have made in service to our nation. 

From the historic moment when former Prime Minister Michael Manley took the salute at the passing-out parade of the first cohort of servicewomen, women have continued to make significant strides, break barriers, excel in their fields, and make invaluable contributions to the development of Jamaica. When women have the opportunity to serve, lead, and excel, the entire nation benefits.

The PNP Women’s Movement proudly salutes the women of the Jamaica Defence Force, past and present, for your discipline, commitment, loyalty and courage as we continue to break barriers and move towards gender parity in our country.