Royal Bermuda Regiment completes Hurricane Melissa recovery mission in Jamaica

The Royal Bermuda Regiment has completed a two-week deployment to Jamaica to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, Bermuda’s Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, announced.

Hurricane Melissa made landfall on October 28, 2025, as a Category Five storm, affecting more than 700,000 people, cutting off 27 communities, and destroying or severely damaging over 200,000 homes. Critical infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water systems, continues to be restored across the island.

In response, Bermuda committed humanitarian assistance to Jamaica, and in November 2025, reconnaissance by the Royal Bermuda Regiment confirmed the areas most in need. Following Cabinet approval, up to 27 soldiers were deployed from February 15 to 28, 2026.

The Bermudian contingent was embedded with the Jamaica Defence Force Engineer Regiment and worked alongside units from the Guyana Defence Force, as well as contingents from the Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos Islands. Their primary task was repairing roofs damaged by Hurricane Melissa in St. Elizabeth Parish, one of the hardest-hit areas.

“The Regiment’s deployment was practical, focused, and aligned with Jamaica’s identified priorities,” Minister Weeks said. “All soldiers volunteered for this mission and met strict pre-deployment requirements, including medical clearance and fitness standards.”

The troops were stationed at Forward Operating Base Luana in St. Elizabeth, with logistical and life support provided by the Jamaica Defence Force. During the deployment, Bermudian soldiers were reportedly erecting a new roof every two days, combining skill, speed, and high morale.

Minister Weeks, along with Bermuda’s National Disaster Coordinator and the Governor, visited the soldiers in Jamaica to observe the progress firsthand. He praised the professionalism and enthusiasm of the troops, highlighting the impact of their work on local communities.

“This mission represented more than a deployment. It was a demonstration of solidarity between small island countries vulnerable to extreme weather events,” the Minister said. “By deploying skilled and disciplined personnel, Bermuda contributed where the need remains real and where our capabilities could make a measurable difference.”

The total cost of the two-week deployment was $241,385, covering transportation, equipment, supplies, and an operational allowance for the demanding field conditions.

Minister Weeks commended the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Simons, and the Royal Bermuda Regiment for their planning and dedication, emphasizing that Bermuda’s efforts are having a lasting impact on St. Elizabeth Parish and Jamaica as a whole.

“Bermuda made a promise to support the people of Jamaica following Melissa’s onslaught, and this deployment was the fulfillment of that promise,” he said, quoting the Greek philosopher Ennius: “A sure friend is known when in difficulty.”