Fifteen Officer Cadets became Ensigns yesterday having completed the Standard Officer’s Course #44. However the ensigns, who include ranks from the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Prison Service, will become fully commissioned officers in February next year. The ensigncy parade was held at the drill square, Base Camp Ayangana.
When the course started in April of this year, there were 24 participants but nine dropped out.
The Guyana Defense Force Chief of Staff Commodore Gary Best attaching the badge of rank to one of the new Ensigns.
Commodore Gary Best congratulated the ensigns for their accomplishment and told them that although they have come this far in the quest to be military officers, the road ahead requires much discipline. Best urged the ranks to continue to challenge themselves in grasping vast knowledge so as to be more aware of every issue in society.
“Become more aware of the world around, this is very important as you go out to serve our people and as you serve, serve with and go beyond racial and social barriers and serve without fear and favour”.
Best reminded the ranks that their true character will be tested once they would have fully become commissioned as officers and as they start to interface with junior ranks. He further urged the rank to be good leaders as they will be expected to display good qualities which should at all time include, honesty, diligence and integrity among others.
The Chief of Staff added that the officers should always carry themselves with integrity, since they are reflections of not only themselves and family but the country which they took an oath to serve.