Kato resident shines as GDF recruits 147 new soldiers
A 20-year-old resident of Kato, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), is the Best Graduating Student of the Basic Recruit Course 2021-01.
Private Alan Xavier was among 147 recruits who completed the course, which began on Monday.
The graduation parade took place on the Patrick Williams Drill Square at the Colonel John Clarke Military School, Tacama.
Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess in his address to the new batch of soldiers extended congratulations on their successful completion of the course and thanked them for choosing the military as their career of choice.
Brigadier Bess also underscored the importance of adherence to the Values and Standards of the Force.
COS Brigadier Godfrey Bess presenting the Best Graduating Student Prize to PTE Alan Xavier (Photo: Cpl Marvin Frank – GDF G9 Branch)
He emphasised that while they have completed the process intended to refine their thinking and shape their mind and body to the task of service, it is also essential for them to remember what the organisation requires.
“Now it is expected that you inculcate positive thoughts which will be followed by positive actions that are meant to recognise you as upstanding citizens. You are being welcomed into a profession that prides itself on discipline. It is one of our core values. We are expected to be disciplined in and out of uniform,” he stressed.
The prize for Runner-Up Student was won by Private Quinton Crandon and the Best Military Knowledge prize was awarded to Private Raphael Edinboro. Private Shamar Dawson received the prize for Best Fitness while Private Shannan Smith gained the Best Shot award, and Private Akeem Bentick copped the Best Drill prize.
The newly recruited soldiers of the GDF (Photo: Cpl Marvin Frank – GDF G9 Branch)
Second Lieutenant Jubal West, the Principal Instructor of Five Platoon which was adjudged Best Platoon, noted that the most challenging aspect was maintaining the COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines, with new teaching techniques and styles while ensuring that recruits adhered to the rules.
The Chief-of-Staff, officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force congratulated the graduates on their completion of Basic Recruits Course 2021-01 and wished them a memorable and meaningful career.
