DURING the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) commissioning service for the Standard Officers’ Course (SOC) Number 46 in the auditorium at Base Camp Ayanganna, in Georgetown, Reverend T. Kofia Nials of the Friendship Circuit Methodist Church told the gathering and the Ensigns that an officer of the army does not lie, steal and cheat and they should be concerned about their identity.

In his sermon, he encouraged the Ensigns to let their light so shine that they will be recognised for their integrity and he also urged them not to fall for any “get rich quick schemes” which will only lead them to ruin.

He called on them to be disciplined in their conduct, both in and out of their uniforms, as they embark on their journey in the army, which will not be easy. Reverend Nials also called on the Ensigns to be aware of the core values of the GDF and to stand out as they are called to duty.

Moreover, he told the Ensigns they must desist from corrupt practices such as accepting money or bribes to “let things pass through our borders” and uphold the core values of the noble institution they were called to serve.

The service began yesterday with the arrival of Chief of Staff (COS) Brigadier, Mark Phillips and then the Colour Party marched on in slow time and made the flag presentation to the Force Chaplin, who placed it on the altar.

The Officers’ Stars were borne into the hall and handed to the Force Chaplain, who placed them on the altar and the programme continued with the singing of hymns and other songs, reading of prayers and scriptures.

The Officers’ Stars were blessed by prayers and given back to the Colour Party which marched out of the auditorium in slow time yesterday.

The service was attended by members of the Disciplined Services, senior officers of the army, relatives of the Ensigns and others.

The batch of Ensigns will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants and receive their badges of rank at the GDF Drill Square at Base Camp Ayanganna today and tomorrow they will be presented with their Instruments of Commission at the Office of the President by President Donald Ramotar, who is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Written By Michel Outridge