Some 232 recruits have signed up for the latest round of basic training in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
A GDF release stated that on September 8, the Basic Recruit Course 2022-02 (BRC 2022-02), held its official opening ceremony on the Patrick Williams Drill Square of the Colonel John Clarke Military School (CJCMS) Tacama, Berbice River.
The feature address was given by Colonel General Staff (Col GS), Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts.
In his remarks, Colonel Roberts welcomed the recruits to the GDF and congratulated them on their journey so far as he encouraged them to persevere to be graduates of BRC 2022-02. He also underscored the importance of their service in the realisation of the roles of the GDF.
“It is a solemn obligation and duty to welcome recruits to the Force. The GDF is charged with the defence of and maintenance of order in Guyana. There is no other duty more critical to Guyana’s existence and growth than to defend her against all threats. You, recruits, have answered that call to defend Guyana and to assist with the maintenance of order in this beautiful and, I dare say, wealthy country of ours. You have answered a call for the patriotic duty of defending Guyana’s sovereignty and integrity. You have answered a call to be a part of this noble institution and, for that, I commend you”, he said.
The Colonel urged the recruits to be adoptive custodians of discipline and dedication, mentally, emotionally, and physically, traits which he stressed were “critical to the accomplishment of missions.” He also emphasised the importance of teamwork in the military sphere, explaining that, according to the customary saying, the acronym TEAM abbreviates as ‘together each achieves much’. The Col GS charged the recruits to be exemplary, law-abiding citizens and ranks who uphold the values and standards of the GDF.
According to the release, the recruits will be exposed to several subject areas which include, but are not limited to, Skill-at-Arms, Drills, Physical Training, Field Craft, Internal Security, Open Country Warfare, Close Country Warfare, Map Reading and Navigation, National Policies, and the GDF Values and Standards.
Following the successful completion of the course, prizes will be bestowed on the Best Graduating Student, Runner-up Student, Best Military Knowledge, Best Fitness, Best Shot, and Best Drill.
The Officer Commanding BRC 2022-02 is Major Mwana McDonald and he is assisted by six lieutenants who are Principal Instructors (PI) and 18 staff who are Syndicate Instructors (SI) and Assistant Instructors (AI).
The course commenced on August 1st, 2022 and is scheduled to be conducted over a twelve week period, the release added.
