CHIEF-OF-STAFF of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Mark Phillips last Wednesday congratulated the latest cohort of 256 new soldiers to have completed induction training in the army, and urged them to embrace discipline.

“Discipline, particularly your self-discipline, is critical to your development and progress as a soldier in the GDF. You have just completed training which is designed to transform you from being civilians into soldiers. During this training, you learnt new ways of thinking and behaving.

“You have demonstrated, through your collective behaviour and coordination on this parade, that you have inculcated a large measure of discipline. This must continue. You have to work at maintaining a disciplined approach each day, as you serve in the GDF,” the CoS told the soldiers.

Delivering the feature address at the passing out parade for the new soldiers, a press release issued recently said, the CoS explained that, in 2015, the GDF’s focus will be on operational readiness.

Brigadier Phillips entreated the soldiers to be ready to serve the GDF and Guyana.

“The GDF serves Guyana! The GDF defends the Constitution of Guyana and protects Guyana’s national interests. You will undergo further training at your units which will broaden your understanding of the GDF and prepare you for the tasks required,” he said.

The CoS challenged the soldiers to understand their rights and duties under military law, and to refrain from engaging in any form of criminal behaviour. Additionally, he encouraged them to pursue continuing education, and at all times to make use of opportunities for learning.

“Learn, practise and uphold the values and standards of the GDF. This training has transformed you. Today, you must begin this new path by taking responsibility for your actions,” the CoS said.

Private (Pte) Noel De Jonge was adjudged the Best Graduating Student of the course, while Pte Shawn Williams earned the Best Fitness Award. Privates Randolph Doobay, Jay James and Randy DePutron were awarded Best [at] Drill, Best Shot, and Best Military Knowledge respectively.

This second cohort of new soldiers brings to 529 the total of new enlistments to the Force for 2014.