Overwhelming elation and a sense of patriotism was felt by standout middleweight pugilist, Desmond Amsterdam after his promotion to Sergeant following his heroics at the American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Championships in Ecuador.
On March 28, the former Corporal in the Guyana Defence Force created history by becoming the first Guyanese boxer to cash in and medal at the event. Amsterdam finished with a bronze medal and earned $US2500.
Upon his return to duty, he was promoted for his heroics by Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess.