Incoming Chief of Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Major General Stewart Saunders (left) steps off a parade jeep during a rehearsal ceremony for the 'Passing of the Guard' parade at Up Park Camp on Thursday. Also making his way off the jeep is outgoing Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin (right), while looking on is Lieutenant Colonel Derek Robinson, commanding officer of the First Battalion and parade commander. Major General Saunders will replace Rear Admiral Lewin today as head of the JDF. - Norman Grindley/ Deputy Chief Photographer

This Afternoon will herald the change of the guard in the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), when outgoing Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin will hand over command to Major General Stewart Saunders.

The ceremony which will take place at 3:30 p.m at the polo field at Up Park Camp, the headquarters of the JDF, signals the end of the five-year reign of Rear Admiral Lewin.

Appointed on May 12, 2002 Rear Admiral Lewin previously served as Colonel Adjutant Quartermaster. He enlisted in the JDF in 1971 and has served as a Sub-Lieutenant, Navigating Officer and First Lieutenant in the JDF Coastguard.

His decorations include Commander of the Order of Distinction, Medal of Honour for Meritorious Service, General Service Medal and the US Coastguard Public Service Medal.

Saunders' ladder of success

His successor Major General Saunders is a past head boy of Jamaica College who joined the JDF in 1973. He has served as lieutenant, captain, major, lieutenant colonel and colonel.

Members of the public are invited to the event and are expected to be seated no later than 3:00 p.m. The Duppy Gate entrance will be opened at 2:00 p.m.