• A proud moment ‘CRÈME DE LA CRÈME’
• Best male recruit from cadet to soldier
• Best female recruit ‘CRÈME DE LA CRÈME’

On the momentous day, 24 February 2008, 50 females entered the Jamaica Defence Force Training Depot, in Newcastle, St Andrew,  on their quest to become soldiers.  The training was tough and a few did not make it.  Although challenging, 40 females travailed to the end, with one being recognized as the most outstanding of the Intake.

Private Kadeon Houslin was received the Best Recruit award for Intake 10 at the end of their 14 weeks of intense training.   The 21-year-old past student of Happy Grove High School said that it was always her intention to join the JDF as she loved the military.

 During  the interview shortly before the parade, Private Houslin had bright smiles. She glowed as she said,  “I’m feeling really good.  I can’t wait to go on the parade and show myself.” 

Private Houslin remembered her first Basic Fitness Test (BFT) after two weeks on the ‘hill’.  “It was so hard, I felt like I was unable to make it,” Houslin stated.  But as the training progressed her mental and physical strength grew. 

Private Houslin was a cadet for five years in high school and attained the rank of Corporal.  “I loved being a cadet because I liked the whole idea of soldering.”   Being a cadet made it much easier for her to adjust to military life, however, it was just not enough.   “My worst experience in recruit training was bush training.” 

“I was made Platoon Commander and I had to be up all night while everyone else was asleep,” she said.  “I had to ensure all the sentries were out and that they didn’t fall asleep.  It was a miserable experience.”

But nevertheless, her squad instructor, Corporal Marshalee Roof had high regards for her.   “Private Houslin was a very hard working recruit.  She always got things done,” said
Corporal Roof.   “Even though she was injured during the initial part of training that did not stop her from excelling.   She spent five days at the JDF Medical Reception Station for a sprained ankle.  When she returned she picked up rather quickly,” Corporal Roof said. 

Corporal Roof stated that she felt honoured to have had Private Houslin in her squad.
Private Houslin was very grateful to Cpl Roof for the guidance she gave her in becoming the crème de la crème.  

Private Houslin enjoys playing football among other boyish things.  She hopes to further her studies in the construction field as she will be working in the Engineer Regiment of the Jamaica Defence Force.