MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
LAST Friday saw the conclusion of ‘Fused Response 2012’, an exercise aimed at improving Guyana and the US’ capabilities to plan and conduct joint operations while simultaneously allowing for closer military and civilian relationships to be forged. The programme, held annually as the U.S. forces visit varying countries to boost their military capacity to respond to organised crime amongst other relations, saw participation from members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the United States (U.S.) Military, and agents from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Speaking at a reception at the Duke Lodge to mark the occasion, Charge d’ Affaires at the U.S. Embassy here, Mr. Thomas Pierce observed:
“It has been an intense and arduous but a very valuable and constructive nine days of training exercises and sharing of our skills. Our military and civilian leaders were able to work together closely in planning and carrying out this exercise…We all benefitted from each other’s experience…we also strengthened the existing friendships and established new relationships.”
Pierce said Fused Response succeeded in demonstrating the strong security partnership between the U.S. and Guyana, as it reflected a broad-based and continuous commitment on the part of the U.S. to have peaceful military and civilian engagement in the promotion of peace and prosperity in the Americas.
“The exercise succeeded in fulfilling its objectives, and it improved both countries’ capabilities to plan and conduct joint operations…it has also allowed us to forge closer civilian and military relationships on a number of fronts,” Pierce said, adding that Fused Response helps improve the overall operability of the U.S. and Guyanese military forces, in that it enhances law enforcement operations through FBI-conducted training.
He said that as a result of this enhancement, military and law enforcement authorities are now better able to respond to crises and confront common threats, such as organised crime and illicit trafficking, as well as provide assistance in cases of natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies.
“We have a strong history, with strong partnerships that include joint exercises, training, information sharing, education and humanitarian and medical assistance…These joint operations provide that valuable training, services and infrastructure while providing practical experience with our partners and allies, so that individually and collectively we can better protect our citizenry and enhance regional security,” Pierce said.
Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds, performing the duties of President, extended gratitude on behalf of His Excellency Donald Ramotar and the government for the opportunity which was given to better equip Guyana’s military and law enforcement arm in conducting operations against organised crime.

“With this we can improve our struggle against people who are bent on criminal activities…in the struggle against criminals and terrorists, a joint effort is needed as criminals bond together for mischief,” the Prime Minster said.

In today’s changing world, criminals and their activities do not respect borders. As such, governments similarly need to work together to wage a success war against criminals and terrorists, he added.

The evening’s reception also saw Colonel John Poast of the Special Operations South Command presenting a token of appreciation to Prime Minister Hinds and Charge d’ Affaires Pierce, whilst Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Commodore Gary Best presented a token of appreciation to Colonel Poast.

Approximately 125 Guyanese military personnel (including from the Guyana Police Force and other joint services bodies) and 350 from the U.S. forces participated in the training exercise which ran from March 1-9.

In preparation for this exercise, construction teams from the U.S. were in the country over the past two months working with the GDF to refurbish several facilities where the training took  place including: rifle range and three barracks at Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri. A floating dock was also built.