Coast Guard Commander on pre-retirement leave

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KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, April 4 – The Coast Guard has recognized Commander Tyrone James, who has proceeded on pre-retirement leave for his contribution to the development of the organization.

On Tuesday, at a ceremony at the Calliaqua Coast Guard Base, acting Commander of the Coast Guard, Brenton Cain, presented Commander James, the Coast Guard’s second Vincentian commander, with a plaque and thanked him for serving St.Vincent and the Grenadines with distinction.

Cain lauded James and former Coast Guard commander, David Robin, for laying the foundation at the Coast Guard “that has made life easier for those serving the organization at the present moment.”

“Commander James has made a tremendous contribution to the development of the Coast Guard. He was responsible for putting most of the systems in place that we are using,” Cain said.

Commander James took the helm of the Coast Guard in October 2005 until his secondment to the Regional Security System (RSS) in 2007. He returned to the Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force in January 2013, where he served as the Director of Training until March 31, 2013.

Commander James, delivering brief remarks, expressed thanks to the Coast Guard for remembering him. He also pointed out the importance of recognizing people for the contribution that they have made.

“I am hoping that other persons will be recognized. … I hope you all achieve your wishes and your dreams,” James said.

He is credited with introducing a number of programmes, among them the Youth Development Summer Programme and the Basic Seamanship Course, as part of the Coast Guard’s strategic approach.

The Youth Development Programme began in 1994. It also helps to guide young people to choose a career either in the Coast Guard Service/Police Force, marine environment, Fisheries Department, child psychology and solid waste management.

And, on Jan. 19, 2006, the first Basic Seamanship Course, another of Commander James’ ideas, was held in St.Vincent and the Grenadines for the first time. The programme was approved by the Regional Security System, which normally conducts the Basic Seamanship Course in Antigua. There were 11 participants.

The Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force wishes Commander James the best in his future endeavors.

(Police Public Relations & Complaints Department)