“REMEMBER as you leave this location that you are representing yourself, myself, your family and most importantly the Guyana Defence Force. Think in advance what would be the consequence of your negative action if you choose to do so, be proud young men and make the GDF proud of you.” These words are still as clear as crystal and came from the lips of Second Lieutenant Bruce Lovell (now Col, Lovell) as he addressed a section of us as we prepared to embark on a foot patrol at Suddie on the Essequibo Coast in October 1982.
These words have helped charter my course in life. Today as I find myself lecturing to those who seem to be in the need of pep talk I would find myself using parts of his speech to them.
A few months ago a young man approached me and asked me to tell him why he should not go AWOL from the GDF. Looking around for something to sit on I manage to find an old car tyre in which I invited him to sit. The young man then began to speak about his frustration at his work as I listened attentively.
When he was finished I drew up my conclusions. This young soldier was confused. He had just wanted to hear what is expected of a soldier and to have it from someone who had some ideas of soldering. Closing my eyes to repeat the words spoken to us by Lieutenant Lovell 28 years ago,
I then went on to explain what he was trying to get over to us. Two days ago I bumped into the young man. He had a big smile on his face and managed to say through his grin that he has decided to stay on in the GDF and make it his career not before thanking for the words,that has changed his attitude towards his work. Tapping him on his shoulder, I said No! No! son thank Col. Bruce Lovell, he is the one who has planted those words years ago, and today the tree is bearing in abundance.
I saw Col. Lovell at the Pork Knockers day celebration and I was so happy that I forgot to thank him.
To those who are presently serving in the GDF take heed and remember those wise words and you would make us all proud, that we served in this mighty organisation. God Bless the GDF.