BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Junior Police Drum Corps (RSCNJPDC) yesterday afternoon (Apr. 23) received a fillip when the Australian Government donated eight drums and symbols to that para-military body.
In a brief ceremony held at the Police Training School, the instruments were officially handed over to the Corps in the presence of its members and instructors.
Speaking at the ceremony before the official handover was Commissioner of Police Celvin ‘CG’ Walwyn, who said that the Corps was a representation of some of the good that youths were doing, noting that "this is just a prime example that not every child in the Federation is a bad child".
He thanked the youths for taking pride in themselves and the Federation and for doing something positive by joining the RSCNJPDC.
"Not every child out there does wrong things, and that is why I am so happy to be a part of this. So happy to be the Commissioner of Police and have you as young people involved in the Drum Corps. I've seen some of you play and I am very impressed," he told the Corps members.
He informed that the drums were purchased with funds donated by the Australian Government for the purpose of assisting them in their efforts to do something positive.
He thanked the Government of Australia for their contribution towards positivity in the Federation.
The Commissioner, while praising the youths for being a part of the Drum Corps, encouraged them to continue along the constructive path they are on because they do not know what the future holds for them professionally.
"Today you may start out on the drums in the Drum Corps, tomorrow you may be a police officer and pretty soon, before my time is passed on this earth, you could be the next Commissioner of Police."
Leaving the youths with a word of advice, Commissioner Walwyn said, "Don't let anyone tell you what you cannot do."
Also speaking at the ceremony was Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Astona Browne, who also thanked the Government of Australia for their timely and very much appreciated donation.
She echoed Commissioner Walwyn’s sentiments, noting that being a part of the Drum Corps was a positive step taken by the youths, while encouraging them to continue doing good deeds.
Pastor Sylvester Watts blessed the instruments and prayed for their longevity.
Giving the vote of thanks was Commandant of the Police Training School Superintendant Lionel Moore, who said he would like to see the Drum Corps expand into a marching band.
He also invited interested youths from around St. Kitts to join the Drum Corps.
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