Over 50 women among 186 new soldiers recently inducted

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has inducted 186 new recruits, including 55 women, into its ranks following their successful completion of the Basic Recruit Specialisation Course 2024-01 (BRSC 2024-01). The foundational training for these soldiers concluded with a formal parade held at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS) Drill Square, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri.

The ceremony was marked by a display of disciplined precision and readiness, as Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, addressed the new soldiers and their families. In his feature address, Brigadier Khan expressed his gratitude to the recruits for their decision to serve their country and emphasized the significance of the day. “Today is a very special day for you and the entire Guyana Defence Force. The lifeline, the blood of any military, continuously runs with the induction of new soldiers. Today marks a significant milestone in your life. Military service in one’s country is one of the best professions. You have made an honourable decision to serve, and I congratulate you,” Brigadier Khan stated.

He underscored the importance of adhering to the GDF’s core Values and Standards, which include Duty, Discipline, Identity, Integrity, and Loyalty. “These values inculcated in you are the hallmarks of a professional soldier and are meant to guide you in your conduct, how you look, move, and speak,” he added.

Brigadier Khan also commended the female soldiers in the cohort, noting the exceptional performance of the runner-up student, a female recruit, which highlights the growing potential and capabilities of women within the GDF.

The BRSC 2024-01 cohort is the first to complete a newly revised course curriculum. The 15-week program combines military orientation and specialisation training, with a focus on Foot and Arm Drills, Field Craft, Map Reading and Navigation, Open and Close Country Warfare, Internal Security, and specialized areas such as Infantry, Seaman Ship, Engineering, Radio Operations, Music, and Professional Administration.

Several recruits were recognized for their outstanding achievements during the course. Private Kester Jeffery was awarded Best Graduating Student, while Private Devalyn Elliman was named Runner-up and received the Best Military Knowledge award. Additional awards went to Privates Marvin Williams (Best Fitness), Leeram Elliman (Best Shot), and Carlon Grant (Best Drill).

The Chief of Defence Staff, along with the Officers and Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the new soldiers and welcomed them into the Force.