Jamaica Recognises 140 People at National Honours Ceremony at King’s House

Businessman Kenneth Loshusan was posthumously awarded the Order of Distinction, rank of Commander, for his contributions to industry and commerce. His family said the honour, announced for National Heroes Day, reflects his vision for projects that supported development and improved lives in Jamaican communities.

Jamaica Fire Brigade Commissioner Stewart Beckford received the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander at King’s House, becoming the first serving fire commissioner to get the honour. He credited colleagues, mentors and family for his career, which included years of frontline service, promotions and dangerous responses in volatile communities like Trench Town.

Jamaica has awarded 93-year-old Peter Xavier “Poppy Man” Williams the Order of Distinction, Officer class, for decades of advocacy for veterans of both world wars. A former JDF member who still hands out poppies, Williams says his life of national service and self-discipline has shaped his work honouring soldiers and encouraging youth to serve.

Breast cancer survivor and advocate Sandra Samuels received the Order of Distinction, Officer rank, for her entrepreneurship and breast cancer work, calling for stronger screening and treatment access for Jamaican women. As president of Jamaica Reach to Recovery, she has long led support efforts, including the annual Pink Run, to help women facing the disease.

Five Jamaicans were recognised with the Order of Jamaica at Monday’s investiture ceremony at King’s House, including Richard Byles, Daryl Vaz, Maxine Henry-Wilson, Christopher Zacca and the late Derrick Smith, represented by his son Duane Smith. The honours highlight contributions to public service, education, finance and business.

At King’s House yesterday, 140 Jamaicans were recognised for outstanding service and contributions to nation-building at the annual Ceremony of Investiture. The honourees received national awards including the Order of Jamaica, the Order of Distinction and the Badge of Honour.

In this opinion piece, the writer congratulates Jamaica’s national honours recipients and says their service in areas like education, health care, culture and community development shows nation-building depends on many kinds of contributions. It also argues the honours system should remain fair and transparent, so recognition reflects real achievement rather than favouritism.

Veteran Jamaican percussionist Bongo Herman, born Herman Constantine, received the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service at King’s House for his contribution to Jamaican music. He said the recognition means a great deal because many musicians are honoured only after death, making this award especially meaningful to him and to the local music community.

Clarendon councillor Scean Barnswell and his wife Danielle received the Badge of Honour for Gallantry at King’s House for their quick action in helping rescue a six-year-old girl reportedly abducted in May Pen last December. The couple were among 149 Jamaicans honoured for national service. Their recognition highlights the importance of community vigilance and swift police cooperation.

Entertainer Mr Vegas, born Clifford Roy Smith, received the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer on Monday for his decades-long contribution to reggae and dancehall. The honour was presented by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen at King’s House during the 2026 National Honours and Awards ceremony. Vegas said he was humbled by the recognition.

Six Jamaicans received the Order of Jamaica at Monday’s investiture at King’s House, including Richard Byles, Daryl Vaz, Christopher Zacca, Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Maxine Henry-Wilson and former minister Derrick Smith. Smith was absent for health reasons, and his son Duane accepted on his behalf, as Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presented the awards in a new group format.

Six Jamaicans, including Richard Byles, Daryl Vaz, Christopher Zacca, Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Maxine Henry-Wilson and Derrick Smith, will receive the Order of Jamaica at today’s national honours ceremony at King’s House. In all, 140 people will be recognised for service to Jamaica, including members of the security forces, with Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presiding.

Jamaican percussionist Lawrence “Larry” McDonald will receive the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service in Entertainment on October 19, 2026, recognizing nearly 70 years shaping ska, rocksteady, reggae and other genres. Born in St Mary, he helped carry Jamaica’s African-rooted rhythms worldwide through work with Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Gil Scott-Heron and others.