6 GDF soldiers honoured with top Border Defence Medal

… “these soldiers exemplify what it means to love and serve one’s country” – Army head

Six members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were formally honoured with the Border Defence Medal Class One and elevated in rank for their courageous actions during a hostile encounter along the Cuyuni River earlier this year. The award, conferred by President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Irfaan Ali, recognises their exceptional bravery, tactical discipline, and commitment to the defence of Guyana’s territorial integrity.
The decoration ceremony was held on Monday at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School Drill Square, where Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, presented the medals and new badges of rank in the presence of officers and ranks.
In a social media post, the GDF said that the honoured ranks, Lieutenant Ansel Murray, Staff Sergeants Andre Fraser and Kevon Davis, Sergeant Kevin Henery, Corporal Troy Yorrick, and Lance Corporal Ezra Samuels, were part of a six-man patrol from the 1 Infantry Battalion conducting a resupply mission on February 17, 2025, when they came under unprovoked fire from armed men positioned on the Venezuelan bank of the Cuyuni River.
Despite being wounded, the patrol returned fire with courage and tactical precision. Their actions not only saved lives but demonstrated the highest standards of military professionalism under duress. They were evacuated the following day for medical attention.
Brigadier Khan commended the men for their combat instinct, discipline, and steadfast resolve under fire. He emphasised that the honours conferred reflect not only their heroic actions but also the critical importance of preserving life in the theatre of danger.

“These soldiers exemplify what it means to love and serve one’s country,” Brigadier Khan stated. “Their response was not just brave, it was deliberate, trained, and driven by duty. Their actions inspire confidence across the Force.”
He further noted that the engagement is one of several recent incidents along the border, and the men’s performance highlights the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and tactical proficiency in protecting Guyana’s sovereignty.
The Border Defence Medal Class One is awarded to members of the disciplinary services who have engaged directly in hostilities in defence of the nation. The award stands as a symbol of national appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve under threat, and with distinction.