Veteran Security Stalwart Gets Badge Of Honour For Long And Faithful Service

For his over 40 years of service to rail transportation, the Government will present the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service to Security Officer, Trevor Lynch Mitchell, on National Heroes Day, October 19.

Mr. Mitchell is among a distinguished group of three persons who have given this length of service to the Jamaica Railway Corporation (JRC) and is also the longest-serving employee of the organisation, who is still employed to the entity.

“I tell you the truth, I feel happy about it because after so long and having gone through so much and reach here, it’s wonderful. I was just doing what I love, so it’s like a bonus for me. The JRC is my first job, and this is my first award, which makes it all the more precious,” he stated.

Mr. Mitchell’s journey began when as a child, he decided that he wanted to pursue a livelihood in the field of security.

“I started out as a holiday worker. I was the youngest one in the department. Someone I knew there gave me the opportunity and they were impressed with the way I work. I eventually moved from the entry-level position to officer and also a supervisory role,” he shared.

Mr. Mitchell noted that he has had a fulfilling vocation at the JRC.

“My most memorable time was when the train was running between Kingston and Montego Bay and I used to work on board as a security officer. Also, you used to have a train called Tourist Train, which operated between Montego Bay and Appleton. I truly enjoyed my time interacting with the friendly tourists,” he reminisces.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mitchell describes himself as someone who is “never serious”.

“I always have a smile on my face, and I am loved by everyone, from the general staff to management. If I have a problem at home, I don’t take it to work,” he stated.

“Ultimately, it’s the way I deal with people. I don’t foul up, if someone is unable to do the job at a location, I will fill in. Sometimes I am running two or three locations,” he added.

His family also plays a critical role in his life, always offering words of encouragement and being enthusiastic about his successes.

“My two daughters in New York are overjoyed with the news of my selection. They are my biggest fans. They feel so good. They plan to come to Jamaica for the ceremony,” Mr. Mitchell informed.

He also disclosed plans “to have a little get-together with family and close friends”, to celebrate receiving the award, as well as his birthday.

As for posterity, Mr. Mitchell believes that his wealth of experience is of value to his children, especially his son who is with him in Jamaica.

“I am sharing my experience with my son who is training for the Schools’ Challenge Quiz. He is always asking me about a new venture I have just started. He’s excited about it, and I believe it’s good to pass on the knowledge to him,” he pointed out.

Nearing the completion of a fruitful career, Mr. Mitchell has decided to become an entrepreneur.

“I have opened a restaurant and bar business right here in Manchester. I will go into it full time after I retire,” he stated.