Remembering the Consummate Protocol Officer

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS –

Lindsay Thompson – Senior Information Officer, BIS

“He was that consummate professional. He did his job with integrity and pride.”

Chief of Protocol (Retired) Terry Archer

“He is Mr. Protocol. He is renowned, being known around the world for his professionalism.”

Andrew McKinney is remembered by his colleagues for the sheer perfection and professionalism that he brought to some of the largest, highly publicized state visits, ceremonies, and national events in the country’s history.

Not as a holder of any high office, but as the Chief of Protocol, who was a stickler for detail and discipline.

Chief Protocol Officer Terry Archer, now in pre-retirement, was a student of McKinney.

Terry Archer – Chief of Protocol

“When you coming from a small country, and international people coming around the world, they want to know if they have the protocol in order. We study that country. We study the leader of the state who’s coming. We study their protocol.”

He was a fixture in royal visits, heads of government meetings, and major events involving governors general, prime ministers, ministers, and international figures.

Bahamas Information Services Senior Information Officer, Lindsay Thompson, recalled even the Bahamian media were held to his high standards.

Lindsay Thompson – Senior Information Officer, BIS

“Just abide by the rules. I know you have to get your stories. Yes, you have to get the photograph, but there are protocols in place, procedures in place, not to disrupt the integrity of the assignment.”

Described as leaving a lasting imprint on the development of diplomatic and ceremonial protocols in The Bahamas, McKinney’s professional stature and presence was captured in some of the most iconic visits by Queen Elizabeth II, South African President Thabo Mbeki, Sir Sidney Poitier, and many others.

Terry Archer – Chief of Protocol

“It will always be said that Andrew made a difference in their lives. I’m sure persons will look and say, I’ve been touched. Andrew has touched me and put me in the principle of how to conduct myself in terms of protocol.”

Lindsay Thompson – Senior Information Officer, BIS

“He taught us how to get the job done with protocol and parameters in place. That makes you a better journalist, a better videographer, a better photographer.”