‘Firm but fair leader’- GDF pays tribute to fallen Warrant Officer, Football Referee

See statement from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on the passing of Warrant Officer Class II and FIFA Referee Maurees Skeete, who passed away on January 9, 2026, following a period of illness.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) mourns the passing of Warrant Officer Class II Maurees Skeete, a dedicated leader whose service to the Force spanned more than two decades.

Warrant Officer Skeete enlisted in the Guyana Defence Force on March 12, 2004, and steadily progressed through the ranks by merit, professionalism, and consistent performance.

Throughout her career, she demonstrated perseverance, adaptability, and commitment to duty, culminating in her promotion to the rank of Warrant Officer Class II on January 1, 2024.

During her service, she held several key appointments, particularly within the Band Corps and General Five Branch. She served in roles including Department Sergeant Major, Drum Major, School Sergeant Major, and Senior Instructor/Squadron Sergeant Major.

In these appointments, she played a vital role in maintaining discipline, mentoring junior ranks, and upholding ceremonial and professional standards across the Force.

Her professional development was supported by the successful completion of numerous military and instructional courses, including the Drill Course, Skill-at-Arms Instructor Course, and the Grade Three Music Course.

She also pursued academic advancement, earning qualifications in Computer Science and Music Theory, reflecting a strong commitment to self-improvement and excellence.

Beyond her military career, she also excelled in national and international sport, bringing further credit to the Guyana Defence Force and to Guyana. In 2014, she made history in football officiating after attaining FIFA International Referee status, distinguishing herself in a highly competitive field with limited regional representation.

Her professionalism and consistency on the field earned her multiple Referee of the Year awards from the Guyana Football Federation, as well as a rare nomination for CONCACAF Female Referee of the Year in 2015, an honour that year bestowed on only one female official from the Caribbean.

In recognition of her faithful and disciplined service, she was awarded the 40th Anniversary Medal, 50th Anniversary Medal, and the Military Efficiency Medal, reflecting her long-standing dedication to the Guyana Defence Force and national service.

Warrant Officer Class II Maurees Skeete will be remembered as a firm but fair leader, a committed instructor, and a dependable Warrant Officer who took pride in her duties and responsibilities.

Her contribution to the development of soldiers and the preservation of military standards leaves a lasting and respected imprint on the Force.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Officers, and Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force extend sincere condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and the wider military community.

Her service is honoured, her sacrifice is acknowledged, and her memory will remain respected within the institution she served with distinction.