McDowall sweeps top awards, sets sights on becoming Police Commissioner 

By Val Matthias. Updated 12:44 p.m., Friday November 6, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Police recruit Romel McDowall has set his sights on rising through the ranks of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), after emerging as the top performer at the Force’s 43rd Passing Out Parade on Thursday November 5.

McDowall, recruit number PR 072, captured three major awards at the ceremony held at the Arnos Vale Stadium, including the prestigious Baton of Honour and Commissioner’s Trophy for Best Recruit, and Best at Multi-Discipline Subjects.

Speaking to One News SVG in an interview, McDowall said he entered the training programme determined to excel, although he admitted he had not anticipated achieving such a high level of success.

He credited focus and effective time management for helping him overcome the demands of police training, particularly the challenge of balancing academic studies with practical duties.

McDowall said recruits were required to prepare for examinations while continuing their daily training and other responsibilities. He recalled that even shining his shoes initially presented a challenge because of the time it took to get the task right.

However, he said he improved his time management, reduced distractions, including unnecessary time on his phone, and made a conscious effort to devote more time to studying.

The young officer also disclosed that his ambition extends beyond joining the Police Force, revealing that he hopes to one day become Commissioner of Police.

He said the achievements of former police commissioners and other successful officers have inspired him to pursue a long-term career in law enforcement.

McDowall encouraged other young men considering a career in policing not to be discouraged, stressing that the profession requires discipline, commitment, integrity and responsibility.

He also acknowledged the support of his mother, Nixon McDowall, and the course instructors, whom he credited with helping him successfully complete the training.

McDowall was among 109 recruits who took their oath of office at Thursday’s passing out parade, formally becoming sworn members of the RSVGPF after months of physical conditioning, academic instruction and tactical training.

The newly sworn officers are expected to be deployed to police divisions and specialised stations across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

END

About the Author: This story was written and submitted by freelance journalist Mr. Val Matthias, a trained communicator with more than two decades in the media sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication (UWI Mona), a Master of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management (UWI Cave Hill), a Certificate in Digital Marketing, and has years of broadcast journalism experience rising to ranks of a programme manager. All supporting materials for this story have been presented, vetted, and verified. Mr Matthias can be reached at [email protected]