Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Training Officer Sub Lieutenant Wayne Richmond won the honour student award on a recently-concluded US Patrol Craft Officer Coastal Course.
The nine-week course, which drew participants from the militaries of several countries, including Iraq, Cambodia, Oman, Azerbai-jan, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Barbados, was conducted by the United States Naval, Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School (NAVSCIATTS) at the John C Stennis Space Centre, Mississippi, in the US.
The course, the GDF said in a statement yesterday, addressed significant aspects of Navigation and Boat Handling and included training in areas such as Floatation and Sea Survival Techniques, Patrol Craft Safety Precautions and Procedures, introduction to Nautical Rules of the Road and Dead Reckoning (DR) Board and Search Drills.
“This experience has been one where I have been exposed to non-traditional training techniques, which, after consultations with my superiors, I would love to see implemented,” Richmond was quoted as saying.
He also said that he was grateful to have been selected for attendance on the course and pledged commitment to the enhancement of his unit.
Richmond, the army added, stated that his new knowledge complements his prior formal training and, as training officer, it will enhance his capacity to deliver training to his fellow Coast Guard officers and ranks.
He also acknowledged that such training opportunities are quite invaluable for the development of skills and competencies within his unit.
The GDF, which reiterated its commitment to the professional development of its ranks since this translates into better service to our nation, said Richmond enlisted in 2004 and is the second GDF officer to have completed the US course.
