13 graduate as GDF enhances medical readiness

…as 19 ranks commence the Grade Two IED/EOD course

Thirteen newly minted Grade Two Medical Assistants have recently joined the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), as the Force continues its efforts to enhance its medical personnel capacity. The ranks officially completed their training on Thursday, July 31, 2025, after 36 weeks of intensive theoretical and practical instruction.

Throughout the training period, the ranks were exposed to advanced topics including Level Two Clinical Anatomy, Pharmacology, Nursing, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Basic Surgery, Traumatology, and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. They also studied medical ethics and other relevant subjects and completed a clinical attachment at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
Officer Commanding the Medical Corps and Director of the course, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Nigel Langhorne, expressed immense pride in the graduates during their official closing ceremony. He commended their commitment and resilience throughout the rigorous training and reminded them of the critical role they now play within the Force.
“Your role as military medics becomes even more crucial. You are not just healthcare providers but protectors of our nation’s stability – especially in remote areas where access to medical services is limited. The health and wellbeing of ranks stationed in these regions directly impact our capacity to maintain sovereignty. Your readiness, professionalism, skill, dedication, and compassion are vital. Every life you save and every act of service you perform reinforces our national strength and unity,” he stated.

Lieutenant Colonel Langhorne also urged the graduates to remain mission-focused and to uphold the dignity and pride of the uniform they wear and the noble institution they represent.
Corporal Calwin Thomas was adjudged Best Student Overall and also received the award for Best Student in Medicine. Petty Officer Jamal Darrell was named runner-up student. Both were awarded prizes in recognition of their outstanding performance.
Meanwhile, 19 ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have commenced training on the Grade Two Improvised Explosive Device/Explosive Ordnance Disposal (Grade Two IED/EOD) as they strive to improve their knowledge and skills to better serve the nation.
This premier course is designed to equip ranks with the knowledge and skills to competently, effectively and safely identify, detect, neutralise and render safe IEDs as Grade Two IED/EOD specialists within the GDF.
During their six weeks of theoretical and practical training, ranks will be taught explosive theories, explosive safety rules and regulations for handling, travelling and storage, first aid, explosive ordnance disposal, improvised explosive devices and IED disposal, and sweep and searching methods in built-up and open areas.
During the simple opening ceremony, Officer Commanding 21 Artillery Company, Major Brentnol Bart, delivered the feature address and urged the ranks to be focused, stay alert and listen keenly to the instructors and follow all safety protocols.
“The fight against IEDs is a battle of intelligence, technology, and discipline. As soldiers and EOD specialists, your preparedness, vigilance, and professionalism can save lives and ensure mission success. Remain committed to continuous learning and operational excellence in this challenging domain,” he urged.