In a distinguished ceremony held on 9 March 2026, at the William J. Perry Center (WPC) in Washington, D.C., the Caribbean’s security architecture received notable international recognition for its contributions to regional stability. Lt. Col. Michael Jones, Executive Director, CARICOM IMPACS, was formally bestowed with the 2025 William J. Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education, while the Agency itself received the William J. Perry Institutional Award.

The ceremony, which took place during an ongoing professional course at the WPC, saw Lt. Col. Jones joined by several of his staff members who are currently serving as both students and faculty at the institution.

Accepting the awards, Lt. Col. Jones delivered a moving address that balanced personal humility with a firm vision for regional security. He dedicated the honours to the staff of CARICOM IMPACS, noting that their "sacrifices have brought the Agency to this milestone".

Reflecting on his tenure since 2018, Lt. Col. Jones outlined the non-negotiable tenets that have guided CARICOM IMPACS’ transformation. He emphasised the necessity of universal contribution, noting that "regardless of rank or role, Executive Director or janitor, we all have a role to play in helping to secure our Region". This commitment is bolstered by a focus on mutual respect, where CARICOM seeks partnerships grounded in shared benefits and an unwavering respect for the law. Above all, Lt. Col. Jones maintained a relentless focus on continuous development, championing education and training as the primary weapons in the ongoing fight against crime.

“I tell my staff what my mother always told me: “Never tire of doing what is right". While we may feel frustrated when we perceive others not doing the same, doing the right thing always works in your favour. Today, I see that she was right on all counts”, he stated.

The awards recognise the tangible results produced by CARICOM IMPACS under Lt. Col. Jones’ leadership, marking a successful transition from policy development to high-impact operational achievements. This progress is evident in the advancement of critical regional strategies, such as the Caribbean Maritime Security Strategy (CMSS) and the Caribbean Firearms Study.

These frameworks have translated into concrete action, with CARICOM IMPACS’ intelligence leading to the seizure of tonnes of cocaine and illegal tobacco, as well as the disruption of gang activity and the movement of passengers of interest across CARICOM borders. Furthermore, CARICOM IMPACS has expanded into new frontiers by establishing specialised units focused on Strategy and Innovation (with a focus on AI), Cyber Intelligence, and Crime Gun Intelligence, alongside a newly minted Environmental Crimes Unit.

During his remarks, Lt. Col. Jones shared an update regarding the future of regional defence education. While noting the success of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI)-Connect system, which has trained over 40,000 law enforcement officers, he made a commitment to the WPC.

“Starting in 2027, CARICOM IMPACS will provide annual scholarships for two individuals from high-income CARICOM Member States to attend the Perry Center’s Caribbean Defense and Security Studies Course", he announced. This initiative aims to support Caribbean countries that often do not qualify for external financial aid, ensuring no Member State is left behind in professional development.

"To my staff, without you, there is no IMPACS. We will continue to do what is right and serve our stakeholders with distinction", he reiterated.

The Executive Director concluded by thanking the United States (US) and Caribbean governments, as well as his family for their unwavering support. He also extended congratulations to his fellow individual awardee, Mr. Juan Erardo Battaleme Martínez, Argentina’s Secretary of International Affairs for Defense.

Photo courtesy the William J. Perry Center.