The Order of Distinction -
Who Wears It and Why!

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The Order of Distinction is said to be conferred upon any citizen who has rendered outstanding and important service to Jamaica in ANY field of endeavour.

This Order is divided into two (2) ranks:-

1. Commander, and

2. Officer.

The rank of Commander is the higher of the two and is called the higher class.

Distinguished citizens of a country other than Jamaica may be conferred with this honour as honorary members.

The motto of this Order is ‘Distinction Through Service’.

Description of The Insignia

The insignia of this Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander is a triangular badge with curved sides. In the center is a black medallion bearing the heraldic Coat of Arms of Jamaica in gold. The words of the motto of the Order are in black.

The Badge is suspended from a silk collar riband (ribbon) of black, gold and green by a silver finial of two intertwined letter "J" attached to the uppermost point of the triangle. Members of this rank use the post nominal letters ‘CD’ and ‘CD (Hon)’ for the honorary members.

It is to be noted that Commanders take place and precedence immediately after Members and Honorary Members of the Order of Jamaica. Also, a Member or Honorary Member may be promoted from the rank of Officer to that of Commander.

Who Can Receive This Award:

The Honour of Order of Distinction is conferred upon Members and/or Honorary Members.

Members are actual citizens of Jamaica who rendered outstanding and important service to Jamaica, while Honorary Members are distinguished citizens of a country other than Jamaica who rendered outstanding and important service to Jamaica.

1. Commanders of the Order of Distinction are entitled to use the post nominal letters:

    ‘CD’ in the case of Members; and
    ‘CD (Hon.)’ in the case of Honorary Members.

2. Officers of Order of Distinction are entitled to use the post nominal letters:

    ‘OD’ in the case of Members; and
    ‘OD (Hon.)’ in the case of Honorary Members

It is VERY important to note thought that the term 'Order of Distinction' should NEVER be abbreviated by the letters ‘OD’ as the post nominal letters ‘OD’ denote ‘Officer of the Order of Distinction’.

Source: Directory of the Orders of the Jamaican Societies of Honour
Jamaica Information Service

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