Guyana Defence Force

GDF ADVANCES OPERATIONAL READINESS THROUGH SECURITY COOPERATION

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) continues to strengthen its operational capabilities through its longstanding security partnership with the United States.

As part of ongoing cooperation between the two nations, the first phase of a communication capability enhancement initiative has been successfully completed.

The initiative included specialised training and the provision of equipment aimed at supporting the Force's communications and operational effectiveness.
The project forms part of broader efforts to enhance the GDF's readiness and ability to effectively execute its responsibilities in support of national security objectives.

The initiative reflects the continued commitment of Guyana and the United States to strengthening defence cooperation, building institutional capacity, and supporting a secure and stable regional environment.

SCSC 20 VISITS CARICOM SECRETARIAT

Students of the Senior Command and Staff Course Number 20 (SCSC 20) recently visited the CARICOM Secretariat as part of the final phase of their training.
The Senior Command and Staff Course is a strategically focused programme that prepares officers for command and senior staff appointments through a combination of academic instruction, practical engagements, and professional development activities.
The engagement was designed to provide officers with practical exposure to the role and functions of regional organisations within the Caribbean, while enhancing their understanding of the mechanisms that support regional cooperation and collective decision-making.
The students are pursuing studies in administration, military studies, global and environmental studies, military law, and the Law of Armed Conflict. The visit to the CARICOM Secretariat complemented these areas of study by providing insight into regional cooperation mechanisms, policy development processes, and the role of regional institutions in addressing contemporary security and development challenges.
The engagement also broadened participants' appreciation of the relationship between security, governance, and development, while reinforcing the importance of regional collaboration in addressing shared challenges across the Caribbean.

CARICOM Secretariat welcomes GDF delegation for special engagement - CARICOM On Thursday, 4 June, the CARICOM Secretariat welcomed a delegation from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Senior Command and Staff Course Number 20 (SCSC #20). The visit featured a special knowledge-sharing session with officials from the Secretariat’s Crime and Security Programme. The GDF officers p...

30 SNCOs JOIN GDF INSTRUCTOR CADRE

Thirty Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have successfully completed the Drill Instructor Course (DIC) and Skill-at-Arms Instructor Course (SAAIC), earning qualification to join the Force's cadre of instructors.
Conducted from March 9 to June 4, 2026, the DIC equipped nineteen SNCOs with the knowledge and instructional skills required to effectively conduct and supervise drill training in accordance with the GDF Drill Manual.
Running concurrently, the SAAIC prepared eleven ranks to plan, conduct, and supervise live-firing exercises and live gr***de throwing in accordance with the GDF Shooting Policy and Pamphlet No. 21, which governs the planning, conduct, and supervision of training involving infantry weapon systems and pyrotechnics.
For their outstanding performance, several ranks were recognised for excellence throughout the courses. Sergeant Jamal Johnson was awarded Best Graduating Student and Best Teaching Practice (DIC), while Sergeant Dason Ryan was named Runner-up Student. On the SAAIC, Sergeant Brentnol Carmichael received the award for Best Graduating Student, Sergeant Javed Dos Santos was named Runner-up Student, and Senior Petty Officer Shannon Ross-Cox earned the award for Best Teaching Practice.
Delivering the closing remarks, Regimental Sergeant Major of 1 Infantry Battalion, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Cleveland O'Brian, congratulated the newly qualified instructors on their achievement while reminding them of the responsibilities that accompany their new role.
“Your successful completion of these courses demonstrates determination, commitment, professionalism, and a willingness to uphold the highest military standards. The knowledge and skills you have gained here are not merely qualifications to be displayed on paper; they are responsibilities that must now be carried forward into your units and demonstrated through your leadership and example,” he said.
The newly qualified instructors will now return to their respective units, where they will play a vital role in maintaining training standards, enhancing operational readiness, and developing the next generation of soldiers across the Force.

ELEVEN GDF RANKS GRADUATE AS GRADE THREE MEDICAL ASSISTANTS

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Training Corps has graduated eleven Grade Three Medical Assistants following thirty weeks of intensive theoretical and practical training.
Drawn from various units across the Force, the ranks received instruction in a wide range of medical disciplines, including basic life support and first aid, human anatomy and physiology, clinical nursing, microbiology and diseases, pharmacology, internal medicine, and field sanitation. The programme culminated with a practical attachment at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where students were afforded the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a clinical environment.

The course was directed by Lieutenant Colonel Dr Nigel Langhorne and delivered by a team of experienced medical professionals drawn from a range of specialties. The instructional staff included Senior Instructors Major Dr Shawn Legall and Dr Lequita Price who were also present at the graduation ceremony held on Friday, June 5, 2026.
Supporting the delivery of the programme were several members of the Force's medical services, whose expertise and practical experience contributed significantly to the training. Among them were Warrant Officer Class Two Seon Duncan, Staff Sergeants Ronic Carter and Shemicka Devonish, and Sergeant Gerelda Jeffery. Chief Instructor Sergeant Nichola La Rose was supported by Assistant Instructors Sergeants Melisa Jhulu-Livan and Nickel Charles, as well as Corporals Rondell Garnett, Teneisha Cort, and Courtney Lewis.

Having successfully completed the course, the graduates are now equipped with the skills and competencies required to provide essential medical support within the GDF, whether serving at Base Medical Centres or deployed alongside operational units across the country.
Delivering the feature address, Commander of 3 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Dominic Shepherd, commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance throughout the demanding programme, while underscoring the vital role they will play in supporting the health, welfare, and operational readiness of their fellow soldiers.
“You have embraced the academic demands, mastered the practical skills, and demonstrated the professionalism required of those who will stand at the frontline of soldier care,” he said. “These are not small achievements. They represent the foundation of trust that your comrades will place in you. When a soldier is injured, ill, or vulnerable, it is you who will be called upon. Your training has prepared you not only to act, but to act with competence, calm, and compassion.”
Lt Col Shepherd further urged the graduates to uphold the standards instilled throughout their training as they assume their new responsibilities within the Force. “As you return to your units, whether to a Base Medical Centre or a deployed sub-unit, carry with you the discipline, humility, and sense of duty that this course has instilled. Remember that your role is not merely technical. It is moral. It is human. It is essential to the operational effectiveness of the GDF,” he charged.
Among the awardees, Lance Corporal Gadwell Grant of 3 Infantry Battalion was named Best Graduating Student and Best Student in Internal Medicine. Lance Corporal Anastasha Ward of 1 Infantry Battalion received the awards for Runner-up Student and Best Student in Clinical Nursing, while Lance Corporal Aquil Williams of Base Camp Stephenson was recognised as Best Student in First Aid.

GDF WARRANT OFFICERS’ DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME COMMENCES

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has commenced its Warrant Officers’ Development Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing capable, adaptive, and professional leaders at every level of the organisation. Ten members of the Warrant Officer cadre have enrolled in the three-week programme, which is designed to further strengthen the leadership and management competencies of some of the Force’s most experienced senior non-commissioned leaders.

Recognising the vital role Warrant Officers play as senior leaders, mentors, advisors, and custodians of military standards, the programme seeks to enhance their ability to lead effectively within an increasingly dynamic and complex operating environment. Their experience and influence remain critical to maintaining discipline, operational rediness, and organisational effectiveness throughout the Force.
The training will be conducted by a team of selected retired Warrant Officers including retired Force Sergeant Majors , Warrant Officers Class One, Raul Rodney and William Richmond.

Setting the tone for the programme, Commanding Officer (ag), Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Drumson McCaulay, emphasised that effective leadership requires a commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and adaptability in the face of evolving operational demands. He noted that the demands placed upon today’s military leaders extend beyond technical competence and increasingly require critical thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to lead within a rapidly changing environment.
Acknowledging the enduring value of the Warrant Officer cadre, Lt Col McCaulay reminded participants that their influence extends far beyond their appointments, shaping organisational culture, reinforcing standards, and contributing directly to operational readiness. Emphasising the significance of their role, he noted that “your efforts count, your contributions save lives and maintain the standards of this organisation.” He encouraged participants to approach the programme with purpose and professionalism, viewing it as an opportunity to further refine their leadership capabilities and strengthen their ability to mentor, guide, and inspire those under their charge.

Over the next three weeks, participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum encompassing leadership, management, accountability, military systems, policy, procedures, and protocol. Through a combination of facilitated discussions, practical exercises, case studies, and collaborative learning activities, they will further develop the knowledge and competencies required to operate effectively within a modern military environment.

The Warrant Officers’ Development Programme forms part of the GDF’s broader commitment to professional military education and leadership development. By investing in the continued growth of its senior non-commissioned leaders, the Force is strengthening the foundation upon which its operational effectiveness, institutional standards, and future leadership depend.

While engaging residents during the Government’s Cabinet outreach in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, took the opportunity to spend time with members of the Guyana Defence Force currently participating in the Platoon Sergeants’ Course at the Colonel Robert Mitchell Jungle and Amphibious Training School at Makouria.

The interaction reflected the Commander-in-Chief’s continued interest in the development of the men and women of the Guyana Defence Force and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of military leaders. Taking time from a demanding schedule of community engagements, the President met with the ranks, exchanged greetings, and paused for photographs with those undertaking the course.

The ranks are presently engaged in the close country warfare phase of the Platoon Sergeants’ Course, a demanding component of training conducted in the dense jungle environment of the Essequibo. Designed to prepare Non-Commissioned Officers for greater leadership responsibilities, this phase challenges participants to operate effectively in restricted terrain where endurance, initiative, sound judgement, and teamwork are essential. Conducted deep within the mighty Essequibo, the training reinforces the fieldcraft, tactical proficiency, and leadership qualities required of Platoon Sergeants who must lead by example and ensure the operational effectiveness of the soldiers under their charge.

The visit also provided an opportunity for President Ali to recognise the contribution of Guyana Coast Guard personnel who supported the outreach. Before departing, the Commander-in-Chief joined the Coast Guard ranks for a group photograph, acknowledging their role in facilitating the movement of his delegation throughout the region’s extensive riverine network.

Though brief, the interactions were warmly received and served as another demonstration of the President’s enduring support for the servicemen and women of the Guyana Defence Force. Whether in training establishments, operational deployments, or national development initiatives, the Commander-in-Chief has consistently emphasised the importance of investing in the people who stand ready to serve and protect the nation.

PARTNERSHIP: FRENCH VESSEL SAILED INTO THE ESSEQUIBO FOR JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

The French Navy patrol vessel La Résolue sailed into the Essequibo as Guyana observed its historic 60th Independence Anniversary, underscoring the strong and growing partnership shared between Guyana and France.

The vessel’s presence formed part of ongoing regional cooperation and military engagement between the two nations, while also allowing members of the French delegation to participate in Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee observances.
Officers and Sailors attached to the vessel joined members of the Guyana Defence Force and other invited guests for activities surrounding the national celebrations, including the ceremonial observance at Fort Island in Essequibo.

The visit highlighted the continued spirit of friendship and collaboration shared between the two countries, particularly in the areas of maritime security, regional stability, and professional military cooperation. It also reflected the importance of strengthening relationships among regional partners through continued engagement, mutual respect, and shared participation in significant national occasions.

The arrival of La Résolue during Guyana’s Independence celebrations stood as a symbol of enduring partnership and regional solidarity as Guyana commemorated sixty years of nationhood.

Resilience and Perservance: The Joint Services on Guyana's 60th Independence Anniversary

Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, together with Branch Heads and Senior Officers of the Guyana Defence Force, joined His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, the Honourable Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, MSS, Prime Minister of Guyana, government officials, dignitaries, special invitees and citizens at the historic 60th Independence Anniversary Flag Raising Ceremony held at Fort Island, Essequibo.

Celebrated under the theme, “The Homecoming,” Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee marked not only sixty years of political independence, but six decades of sacrifice, resilience, nation-building, and patriotism. The choice of Fort Island, a site deeply rooted in Guyana’s colonial and cultural history, served as a symbolic reminder of the nation’s journey from struggle to sovereignty, and from colonial rule to a proud and emerging global presence.

The 60th Independence Anniversary Guard of Honour was led by Parade Commander, Major Avinash Deonarine, and comprised ranks drawn from the Joint Services. Supporting the command structure were First Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Melroy Semple, and Second Platoon Commander, Assistant Superintendent of Police Dwayne Nicholas.

The Colour of the State was carried by Colour Ensigns Lieutenant Kishawn Moore and Second Lieutenant Nkruma Hutson, while Warrant Officer Class One Selwyn Douglas served as Parade Warrant Officer. The Colours were placed under the custodianship of Warrant Officer Class Two Sherwin Whinfield, with Staff Sergeants Michael Simon and Dominic Percival serving as escorts. Platoon Sergeants for the parade were Sergeant Antoney Fordyce and Sergeant Orin Heyliger.

In his address, President Ali reflected on Guyana’s transformation over the past sixty years and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to unity, progress, and the protection of its sovereignty. His remarks echoed the spirit of a nation determined to preserve its territorial integrity, honour the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom, and build a prosperous future for generations to come.

The ceremony unfolded in a magnificent display of patriotism and national pride. The Joint Services delivered an impressive exhibition of military precision, discipline, and professionalism, embodying their enduring commitment to the defence of the nation. Cultural presentations illuminated the richness of Guyana’s identity, celebrating the traditions, contributions, and harmony of the country’s six races in a vibrant reflection of the national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”

Citizens stood in patriotic solidarity as the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted against the Essequibo sky and the National Anthem rang across the ancient grounds of Fort Island. Although an initial difficulty briefly delayed the raising of the national flag, the moment evolved into a powerful display of unity as servicemen and citizens alike stood firm, working together amid cheers of encouragement until the Golden Arrowhead was successfully hoisted. The inspiring scene reflected the resilience, patriotism, and collective spirit of the Guyanese people. The moment was followed by a breathtaking fireworks display, symbolizing the brilliance, hope, and promise of a nation celebrating sixty years of independence.

As Guyana commemorates this extraordinary Diamond Jubilee milestone, the Guyana Defence Force and the Joint Services remain resolute in their sacred duty to defend the nation’s sovereignty, uphold its democratic values, and serve the people of Guyana with honour, loyalty, and pride.