USAIN Bolt was awarded Jamaica’s fourth highest honour – the Order of Jamaica – in October 2009.

At the time the announcement was made by then Prime Minister Bruce Golding in Parliament in September 2009, the House erupted in thunderous applause.

Golding also said Cabinet had given approval for Bolt to be appointed an ambassador-at-large and be accorded full diplomatic status.

In addition, the Government said it would rename Highway 2000 – Jamaica’s high-speed express way – the Usain Bolt Highway in honour of the international track star.

The Order of Jamaica entitles members and honorary members to wear the Insignia of the Order as a decoration, be addressed as ‘honourable’ and use the post nominal letters ‘OJ’ (members) or ‘OJ (Hon)’ for honorary members.

At the time Bolt was 23 years old and was the youngest ever recipient of the Order of Jamaica. Golding said the sprinter was more than just one of the greatest athletes of all time and deserved the accolades being showered on him.

“He is more than that. His endearing personality, charisma and passion for his country make him a superb ambassador of Jamaica,” the prime minister said.

The then Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller, in responding to the prime minister’s announcement, said she was proud that Bolt had been given full diplomatic status as an ambassador of Jamaica, noting that the athlete was an inspiration to many, especially the young, both in Jamaica and abroad.

“I know he will continue to be as humble as he is,” Simpson Miller said.