‘Be courageous’ – Pres. Ali tells new GDF recruits

The newest batch of officers of the Standard and Reserve Officers Courses of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were presented with their instruments of commission, a unique certificate signaling their training and worthiness to serve in the GDF.

Ten recently promoted GDF warrant officers also received their instruments of warrants at State House on Friday.

The officers took their oath before the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Dr Irfaan Ali.

“I congratulate you all on the formal receipt of your commissions and warrants.

“Your commissions require you to be loyal, courageous and to exercise good conduct. It demands that you diligently discharge your duties henceforth,” the Commander-in-Chief said during brief remarks.

The President further called on the new officers to be courageous in defending Guyana against all threats of aggression, incursions, invasions or insurrections.

The officers were told to respect their superiors, who were, in turn, told that their “actions must serve to boost the morale and inspire them to greater heights, trust and confidence.”

President Ali reminded the gathering that Guyana’s policy is to pursue good neighbourly relations.

“Our Republic will not provoke confrontation or aggression. We believe in peace and repose our trust in the role of international law.”

Nevertheless, the Defence Force must be ready at all times in the event of natural disasters or other emergencies.

“As your President and Commander-in-Chief, I urge you to be responsive to the challenges which lie ahead and to accept the responsibilities with your deployment within the force,” President Ali said.

Best graduating student for the Standard Officer’s Course, Second Lieutenant Delano Roberts recalled that despite sleepless nights and rigorous training, the commitment to serve his country was always there.

Speaking on behalf of all the officers, Roberts said: “We will go out into the world and discharge our duties with great diligence, set an example and make a difference for the continuous development of our country.”