The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) yesterday began the celebration of its 49th Anniversary with its traditional Thanksgiving Church Service at the Auditorium, at Base Camp Ayanganna.
A release from the GDF said that in his congratulatory message to the gathering of Force members and special invitees, Chief of Staff Brigadier Mark Phillips said that the Force must continue to function to earn the respect of the citizens of Guyana, notwithstanding what is happening around it.
“We must lead in the defence and security sector.
We must contribute to the development of Guyana, collaborate on diplomatic initiatives since diplomacy remains our first line of defence, and we must commit ourselves to safeguarding democracy in Guyana,” he said.
The Chief of Staff, the release said, signalled that there will be improvements in operational readiness, health services and facilities, soldiers’ well-being, welfare and quality of life issues, on all bases and locations.
He added that special attention will be placed on the training and professional development of all ranks.
Arch Deacon, the Venerable Randolph Reynolds of St Sidwells Anglican Church officiated at the service.
