FORMER servicemen and women of the British Guiana Volunteer Force, the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana People’s Militia, and the Guyana National Service were urged to lobby government to provide more affordable housing, tax waivers, and concessions for veterans.

This call was made by Chief-of-Staff (ag) Colonel Trevor Bowman during his remarks on the lawns of Base Camp Ayanganna in observance of Veterans Day on Friday.

He also offered that veterans, as well as serving troops, should “lobby” for a specialised veterans’ hospital which provides a “full range of medical care and services.”

The acting chief-of-staff conveyed to the veterans, the best wishes extended by Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West, who is on leave.

“We the serving members of the GDF honour our fallen comrades and salute those who have served in whatever capacity…Thank you all for your service to this nation,” he said. “Special thanks to our newest centenarian, WWII Veteran, Private Benjamin Durant who celebrated this milestone yesterday, and to Bombardier Gerald Stewart, also a WWII veteran who celebrated his 97th birthday this month as well,” he said.

Acknowledging the many challenges facing the veterans’ community and the Guyana Veterans Legion, Colonel Bowman highlighted some of issues to which the GDF will continue to demonstrate its commitment.

To this end, he indicated that the force will continue to “prepare servicemen and women for life after the military so that the transition (back into society) will be easier and without undue hardship; to assist the Guyana Veterans Legion and its membership to acquire sponsorship from the private sector to improve their quality of life; to ensure continued improvements and support for the veterans home; to remain committed to providing our traditional forms of assistance and support to you the veteran community, the Guyana Veterans Legion and the Guyana Veterans Rest Home….inclusive of the annual $1M contribution. The Joint Services will also contribute another $200,000 to your account.”

“Meanwhile, I challenge those of you who have the ability to offer employment, to consider former servicemen and women. Those who have resources to give, do so liberally and commit yourselves to improving the lot of others less fortunate. If we do these things, the welfare situation in the veteran community will be much improved,” he said. “We cannot repay the debt we owe you. You have laid the foundation…a good solid foundation that has withstood the test of time. Thank You!”

In addressing the veterans and special invitees, President of the Guyana Veterans’ Legion, retired Lt. Col George Gomes, congratulated the GDF on its 53rd anniversary. He also commended the force on arriving at a positive decision regarding the compensation and treatment of the survivors of the Camp Groomes incident of December 18, 2000.

Lt. Col Gomes, also pointed out that today, more emphasis needs to be placed on the care of veterans—”our comrades who served Guyana selflessly.” He called too, for the publication of the report stemming from the Commission of Inquiry which was launched into veterans’ affairs, and which was completed some time ago, noting that the report was sure to include meaningful recommendations which may be adopted in the furtherance of the interest of the veteran community.

The activity saw the traditional laying of wreaths at the Veterans Monument by the chief-of-staff and the President of the Guyana Veterans Legion. Following the ceremonial observances, the veterans joined each other for lunch in the auditorium at the base.