Some 375 new soldiers were yesterday promoted to the rank of Private in the Guyana Defence Force as simultaneously conducted Basic Recruit Courses concluded.The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in a release said some 283 of the soldiers are being added to the Regular Force, while 92 are being added through the Reserve Force.

The new soldiers passed out yesterday at a simple but significant ceremony at the Colonel John Clarke Military School at Tacama.

Congratulating the new troops and welcoming them to the GDF, Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Mark Phillips, emphasised the need for discipline to be their hallmark.

“As soldiers in the GDF, everything you do, hinges on your consistent demonstration of discipline. The GDF is a military institution and discipline underlies and drives everything we do,” he said.

“Additionally, you are expected to learn, understand and embrace the standards and values of the force. In fact, you are expected to conform to them. Your attitude must be exemplary and you must earn the respect of all the citizens of Guyana. This can be easily achieved once you embrace our standards and values.”

The Chief of Staff entreated the soldiers to commit themselves to serving the people of Guyana.

“Yours must be a commitment to serve. To serve anywhere within the bounds of Guyana’s borders, and, even if deployed overseas, you are to be dedicated and exemplary ambassadors of Guyana. ‘Service’ is our motto!” he emphasised.

He added: “You must be ready to serve the GDF at locations throughout Guyana. You must understand your rights and duties under military law. Your continuing education must be in your focus at all times while you perform your duties as soldiers. At all times you must learn, know, practise and uphold the values and standards.

“Remember, you have made a transition over the last 10 weeks, so you now have to behave as responsible adults. Beginning on November 1, the GDF will celebrate its 50th anniversary. That is, 50 years of service to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. The theme for our 50th anniversary is ‘Commemorating the past, Celebrating the present, and Carving the future’. You are the present and future soldiers and leaders of the Guyana Defence Force, go forth and be the best soldiers you can.”