Prime Minister Mark Phillips has assured Guyana Defence Force (GDF) veterans of his government’s support.
His comments came at the Force’s 14th Veterans Wreath Laying Ceremony, held on the Front Lawns of Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, yesterday, a statement from Phillips’ office said.
Scores of veterans joined serving members of the Force as their service to the nation was honoured.
Phillips, a former Chief of Staff of the GDF, in his address assured the veterans that they are his government’s priority.
“You have a voice in the cockpit of political power of this country as long as I am Prime Minister.” He also reiterated his government’s commitment to the continued support and further development of the National Veteran’s Rest Home and the upgrading of the Pensions and Gratuity section of the Defence Act. He informed the veterans of funds currently allocated to assist persons with renal and kidney ailments, including dialysis.
Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan in his address committed to effecting repairs to the Guyana Veterans Legion (GVL) building, the provision of a resuscitated and well-staffed Veterans Affairs Department, the restart of monthly health checks for Veterans, a cheque for 1 million dollars to the GVL, and the erection of a special memorial to honour members who lost their lives while on duty. He also recommitted to the Force’s traditional assistance and support to all veterans through the GVL and the National Veterans Rest Home.
The statement said that President of the GVL, Colonel (Ret’d) George Gomes, made a request to include the Guyana Veterans Legion in the Defence Act, granting it legal recognition and inclusion in the national budget.
