National reserve called out by JDF as part of Hurricane Melissa response plan
Published:Monday | October 27, 2025 | 8:49 PM
The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) says it has called out the Jamaica National Reserve in response to the threat posed by Hurricane Melissa.
The army says the move forms part of its wider operational response plan to support the national disaster preparedness and humanitarian assistance efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
With the hurricane projected to bring sustained winds, flash flooding, and storm surges across most of Jamaica, army reserve personnel are being mobilised to assist in relief operations, search and rescue, logistics support, and the security of high-risk areas in coordination with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and other government agencies.
Commander of the national reserve, Brigadier Ricardo Blidgen, has urged all personnel to first ensure the safety and security of their homes and families, and then stand ready to assist in securing the nation.
“Your service matters now more than ever,” he said, adding that “this is a national mission and all of you are essential to the JDF’s ability to protect lives, restore stability, and support our fellow Jamaicans in their time of need.”
According to Acting Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier O’neil Bogle, who is overseeing the JDF’s response operations, “the JDF is committed to providing a rapid, disciplined, and compassionate response. Our forces, including the Jamaica National Reserve, will be on the ground to support relief operations, safeguard communities, and restore critical services as quickly as possible.”
The JDF says its mobilisation is being coordinated in full alignment with national disaster management protocols and that JDF troops have already been pre-positioned in some of the areas that are expected to be hit hardest.
Bogle is urging the public to remain calm, stay informed through official updates, and to cooperate with authorities as emergency teams are deployed across the island.
Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.