Veteran UK High Commission Employee Receives National Honour

Donovan Hammond, long serving staff member of the High Commission in London, was recently presented with the insignia of the Order of Distinction for services to Jamaica and the Jamaican community in the United Kingdom (UK).
Mr. Hammond was unable to be in Jamaica for the National Honours and Awards ceremony at King’s House on National Heroes Day last October.
High Commissioner to the UK, Burchell Whiteman, who made the presentation to Mr. Hammond at a special ceremony held at the High Commission, praised the honouree for his service, selflessness and empathy.
“He is being honoured not just for what he has done but for how he carried out (his duties). He has already put his country first at all times, always going the extra mile to be as helpful as possible to Jamaican nationals,” Mr. Whiteman said.
Jamaica Diaspora UK Advisory Board Representative, Paulette Simpson, said the Jamaican community deeply appreciated the work and support of Mr. Hammond. She also praised him for the respect that he has shown the community over the years.
For his part, Mr. Hammond thanked his wife Yvonne and his family for their continuous love and support. He also thanked his colleagues, co-workers and friends.
Mr. Hammond has worked with the Jamaican High Commission since 1974. Originally from Allman Town in Kingston, Mr. Hammond moved to the UK in 1962 to live with his grandmother and complete his education.