KINGSTON, Jamaica — Major Basil Jarrett has returned to the National Reserve of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) effective August 23, 2024.

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). He will continue to serve in this capacity while serving at the JDF.

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

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. There, 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,” said Jarrett while commenting on his return, “I look forward to once again applying my expertise in strategic communications to further strengthen the force’s connection with the public. 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.”

Meanwhile, 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.

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.

Welcoming Major Jarrett back to the JDF and acknowledging Lt Nickle’s timely transition, Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman said, “I have no doubt that their skills and expertise will enhance the JDF’s communication apparatus as we navigate an increasingly complex information environment.”