Reiterating his confidence…
CHIEF of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Commodore Gary Best, yesterday challenged members of the Army to remain steadfast in their duties and follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SPOs) in a professional manner at all times.

Chief of Staff Commodore Gary Best addresses ranks at Camp Ayanganna.

He threw out the challenge at Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, during the annual Soldier’s Day, when, together with President Bharrat Jagdeo, he served Christmas lunch to the ranks.

Best acknowledged that 2009 has been a challenging one for the GDF and he mentioned two areas in particular, maintaining border integrity both maritime and terrestrial in keeping the peace, and support for the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Prison Service and Guyana Fire Service, the other agencies responsible for providing a sense of greater security.

“I believe the GDF, in its core duties, performed to the best of its ability. However, we did have some unsavory acts by members of the GDF this year,” he admitted.

A trio of sergeants offers Christmas greetins at the Soldiers Day lunch.

Best said many would agree they had to bow their heads in shame because of these acts by some soldiers.

“You would also agree with me that it does not represent the whole of the GDF but just a small part which we continue to get rid of,” he added.

Best reiterated his confidence in the GDF.

For the observance, soldiers were served coffee in bed early yesterday morning after a gun-firing exercise.

Later, they were entertained with alcoholic beverages and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) joined in serving them meals.

Before dining, male and female soldiers staged a short cultural performance and ‘Best Table’ prizes were awarded.