One hundred and eighty outstanding recipients were yesterday conferred with national medals and awards by His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen at the National Honours and Awards presentation Ceremony which took place on the Lawns of King’s House on October 21, 2013.
Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, who was acting in accordance with the Regulations made under the National Honours and Awards Act, and on the advice of Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, made the presentations to visibly beaming and deserving citizens at the who were being recognised for having their contribution to nation building.
Among the stalwarts honoured on that occasion were the late Dr. the Hon. Olive Lewin who was awarded the Order of Merit for distinguished service in the fields of Folk Music Research, Performance and Music Education. The award was accepted by her daughter, retired Major Johanna Lewin, whose strides across the lawns to the platform were met with loud applause and cheers from the audience in support of the late cultural icon.
The Order of Jamaica, was presented to six recipients including one of Jamaica’s most recognised reggae artistes Mr. Hugh Beresford Hammond, whose award was collected by his son on his behalf. Beres Hammond, as he is popularly known, was recognized for his exceptional and dedicated contribution to the Jamaican Music Industry.
Other recipients were also awarded with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander, Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer, Badge of Honour for Gallantry, the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service and the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service.
The ceremony ended as it started with members of the Jamaican Defence Force furnishing the Guard of Honour which was earlier inspected by the Governor-General.
