HAVING read statements in the December 7, 2012 edition of the Guyana Chronicle, attributed to the Acting Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence force Colonel Bruce Lovell, on the occasion of the recent passing out parade, I am in doubt as to the philosophy and values of the GDF. It is my firm belief that members of the GDF will hold fast to the values of service with distinction and a true sense of patriotism.  
According to the newspapers, Colonel Bruce Lovell’s message was entitled ‘Being a Witness for the Guyana Defence Force’. He gave an explanation of “how each soldier can be a Witness of the Guyana Defence Force”.  A verbatim statement from the Guyana Chronicle reads “Colonel Lovell said that in order to understand what is being a Witness for the GDF, the Bible must be first approached for guidance.”
What I find more disgusting is the statement ‘Our values influence how we think. How we act determines our destiny’. Here I must ask the following questions:
1. What is the destiny of the Guyana Defence Force?
2.  Is the destiny of the Guyana Defence Force different from that of the Republic of Guyana? 
3.  Is the Guyana Defence Force now acting in tandem with the Christian Churches to enforce conversion through regimentation?
4.  Are there only Christians in the Guyana Defence Force?
5.  At any of the so-called inter-faith services held by the GDF, did a non-Christian deliver the keynote message?

It is not my intention to get personal with the Acting Chief of Staff nor do I want to take a hit at the followers of the Bible. However, I fail to understand why the head of a national institution which is tasked with protecting the rights and safety of all citizens will make such a statement. The Colonel can correct me if I am wrong, for I do believe that the values and philosophy of the Guyana Defence Force must have as its foundations – loyalty to the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana and a sense of patriotism. 
Everyone has a right and the freedom to practise their religion, including those who worship a multiplicity of Gods and use Idols. Regardless of our own sentiments no one should seek to impose their own religious bias on others. For the acting head of our Army to make such a statement is downright disrespectful, disgusting and even borders on bigotry.
Guyana is a model country when it comes to religious appreciation and tolerance. Our religious leaders are working to build upon what we already have. Sorry, we do not need a Christian Army in Guyana. The day the GDF begin to sing “Onward Christian soldiers marching as for war”, I believe there will not be a Guyana.