Born: 1972 or 1973
Biography:
Antonette Wemyss Gorman, born in 1972 or 1973, is a distinguished Jamaican military officer who currently serves as the chief of defence staff of the Jamaica Defence Force. Holding the rank of rear admiral, she has become a trailblazer and a role model for women in the military, as the first female chief of staff in Jamaica and the first woman to reach the rank of commander in the JDF.
Prior to joining the military, Wemyss Gorman spent two years working at Cable & Wireless from 1990. In 1992, at the age of 19, she enlisted in the Jamaica Defence Force and embarked on her remarkable journey. She underwent her initial officer training at the prestigious UK Britannia Royal Naval College, laying the foundation for her successful career.
Between 1994 and 1997, Wemyss Gorman served as the navigating officer on the HMJS Paul Bogle, marking her association with the Jamaica Coast Guard. This appointment was historic, as she became the first woman officer to go to sea in the Jamaica Coast Guard. Her seagoing role not only shattered gender barriers but also represented the first appointment of a woman to a front-line combat role in the Caribbean.
Over the next fifteen years, Wemyss Gorman dedicated herself to serving aboard various ships in the Jamaica Coast Guard. Alongside commanding ships, she took on crucial positions such as Operations Officer, Officer Commanding Shore Base, and Second in Command of the JDF Air Wing. Her dedication, expertise, and leadership eventually led to her appointment as Commanding Officer of the JDF Coast Guard.
Wemyss Gorman’s impact reaches far beyond her personal achievements in the military. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Caribbean Military Maritime Training Centre, ensuring the development and preparation of future military personnel.
Her exceptional career trajectory culminated in her promotion to the rank of rear admiral when she was designated as chief of defence staff, becoming the first female to hold this prestigious position. Her appointment as JDF chief of staff bears testament to her extraordinary abilities, breaking gender barriers and inspiring generations of women to strive for excellence.
In parallel to her military service, Wemyss Gorman also actively engaged in civilian roles. In 1998, she was appointed as Deputy Director for Marine Transport in the Ministry of Transport and Works for a two-year secondment. She also served on the Fisheries Advisory Board and the National COVID-19 Response Advisory Committee, emphasizing her commitment to both her military duties and contributing to broader societal concerns.
Wemyss Gorman’s pursuit of knowledge and continuous professional development is evident. She is an alumna of the US Naval War College and holds a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the University of the West Indies. This further showcases her dedication to personal growth and her determination to excel in her field.
Awards:
– Order of Distinction (Commander Class)
– Medal of Honour for Meritorious Service
– Medal of Honour for General Service
– Military Commendation Medal
– Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
– Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
Personal life:
Despite her demanding military career, Wemyss Gorman also finds solace in her personal life. She is married to Jonathan Wemyss Gorman, and together they have a son. When she is not immersed in her military responsibilities, she enjoys gardening as a hobby, finding tranquility in nurturing plants and connecting with nature.
Raised in Top Alston, Clarendon, Wemyss Gorman’s formative years were shaped by her grandparents. She received her education at Knox Preparatory School and Knox College, which laid the foundation for her academic and personal growth.
Antonette Wemyss Gorman’s contributions to the Jamaica Defence Force and her position as the first female chief of staff will forever leave an indelible mark on women’s history. Her achievements, dedication, and trailblazing spirit inspire women around the world to break barriers and pursue their dreams in any field they choose.