The Guyana Defence Force will tomorrow bid farewell to Chief of Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess and Lieutenant Colonel Omar Khan is tipped to replace him.
While Bess will reach the age of retirement of 55 in December, he will proceed tomorrow on pre-retirement leave, having accumulated more than seven months.
The army has invited the press to witness the Change of Command Parade for the outgoing Chief of Staff, slated to be held tomorrow at the Drill Square, Base Camp Ayanganna.
Although not confirming Khan as the replacement for Bess, President Irfaan Ali yesterday said that Khan, who serves as head of its National Intelligence and Security Agency and also acts as Chief of Staff when Bess is out of the country, would not be in two positions.
“When Mr. Khan assumes his new responsibility, of course we will have other persons taking up that responsibility,” the President said.
The GDF in a Facebook post said that Brigadier Bess gave a farewell charge to members of the army yesterday. It said that he reflected on his 33 years of service and the many lessons he learned during his career.
“He said he witnessed many changes as the Force adapted and evolved to meet the threats and challenges of the 21st century. Brigadier Bess expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve with and lead this large body of men and women,” the post stated.
Quoting Bess, it said he told attendees, “One of the most valuable lessons I have learned during my career is leadership. As an officer, I had the privilege of leading soldiers and civilians from all walks of life. I learned that leadership is not about rank or authority but about character and commitment. It is about setting an example, inspiring others, and empowering them to reach their full potential. Leadership is also about taking care of your subordinates and putting their needs above your own. It means being willing to make tough decisions and accepting responsibility for the consequences. And above all, it is about never losing sight of the fact that your subordinates are not just employees, but human beings with families, dreams, and aspirations.”
The outgoing Chief of Staff also said that he is grateful for the memories and invaluable skills provided through his military career, adding that service to his country afforded him the opportunity of being part of something greater than himself. “I look forward to the next chapter of my life and am excited about spending more time with my family, pursuing new challenges and hobbies, and exploring new opportunities. I am proud to have served alongside the brave men and women of the Guyana Defence Force.”
He will officially hand over command of the Force tomorrow and proceed on pre-retirement leave, the post noted.
