The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Corps of Drums was established in March 1996, bringing together approximately 25 correctional officers from various institutions. The initiative was spearheaded by former Deputy Commissioner of Corrections, Ms Ira Porta, and Superintendent “B” L. Rodgers, who was seconded from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). Training took place at the old training school on Tower Street, Kingston, over six months, under the guidance of JDF personnel.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Corps of Drums was established in March 1996, bringing together approximately 25 correctional officers from various institutions. The initiative was spearheaded by former Deputy Commissioner of Corrections, Ms Ira Porta, and Superintendent “B” L. Rodgers, who was seconded from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). Training took place at the old training school on Tower Street, Kingston, over six months, under the guidance of JDF personnel.
Challenges and Relaunch
In January 2000, the Corps was impacted by a mass interdiction of officers, leading to its fragmentation. However, on 16 December 2005, then Commissioner Ms June Jarrett spearheaded its relaunch at the Tower Street Sports Club. A significant performance followed on 20 December 2005 at the reopening of the New Broughton Sunset Rehabilitation Adult Correctional Centre. Unfortunately, due to a lack of sustained communication, support, and resources, the Corps became dormant once again.
Revival in 2024
Under the leadership of Commissioner of Correctional Services, Brigadier (Ret’d) Radgh Mason, OD, JP, MSc, MMAS, MMS, BSc (Hons), psc, efforts were made to revive the Corps of Drums. Former Acting Director of Music, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Albert Shaun Hird of the JDF, was commissioned to re-establish the Corps and prepare them for performances during Correctional Week 2024.
Training took place from 29 September to 18 October 2024 at the Carl Rattray Staff College. The 23 participating DCS officers were joined by six retired instructors from the JDF Band and the Jamaica Regiment Corps of Drums. The training followed the British Army Corps of Drums organisational structure. The newly revived Corps had its first formal engagements at the Correctional Week Church Service in October 2024, the Remembrance Day Ceremony and Parade in St Ann’s Bay, and the DCS Carol Service at Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Looking ahead, the DCS Corps of Drums aims to grow and further establish itself as a key element of national and ceremonial events, carrying forward a rich legacy of discipline, precision, and musical excellence.
