CI cadets recognized for outstanding contributions

(CMR) The Cayman Islands Cadet Corps (CICC) was honored for its work during COVID-19 and recent tropical storms at a medal presentation ceremony at Government House.

The evening presentation and reception, on Wednesday, 24 November 2021, was hosted by His Excellency, the Governor Mr. Martyn Roper. In all, 16 recipients were awarded Cayman Islands Cadet Corps Disaster Mitigation Medals and Certificates of Commendation.

Recipients, who included officers, instructors and cadets in the CICC and its Marine Detachment were recognized for exemplary disaster mitigation work during COVID-19 and Tropical Storms Eta, Grace, and Ida.

During these periods of crisis, their duties included assisting Hazard Management Cayman Islands in the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), undertaking Call Centre operations during and after the COVID-19 lockdown, helping manage quarantine facilities in East End and George Town, and performing various duties in support of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and other emergency entities.

CICC’s Acting Commandant, Lt. Col Errol Brathwaite, ED, CCM; former Commandant, Lt. Col. Bobeth O’Garro, Cert. Hon. CCM (absent) and Major Marlon Levy, CCM, were the most senior recipients.

The Governor and his wife Lissie were joined at the ceremony by Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service, Hon. Franz Manderson; Minister for Home Affairs, Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Hon. Bernie Bush; Acting Chief Officer for Home Affairs, Mr. Michael Ebanks; Acting Deputy Chief Officer Mr. Julian Lewis and Director of Hazard Management Cayman Islands Ms. Danielle Coleman.

In his welcoming remarks, Roper thanked corps staff and cadets for their exceptional auxiliary work safeguarding the Cayman Islands over the past year and a half.

The Governor also recognized Minister Bush’s commitment to pursuing a vision for the enhanced role of CI Cadet Corps that displayed the Minister’s confidence in the corps’ abilities and robust leadership.

Minister Bush expressed gratitude and pride in the work of the corps in a defining period in its history and that of the nation.