MEMBERS of the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) newest batch of recruits are being urged to uphold a high level of professionalism at all times as they serve their country and its people. The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Brigadier Ret’d David Granger, made the call as he addressed the new soldiers yesterday at their passing out ceremony at the Colonel John Clarke Military School, Tacama, Upper Berbice River.

In his charge to the newest members of the army, the Commander-in-Chief first lauded them for making the choice to join such a noble profession.
Describing the Basic Recruit Course 2015/01 as one which is “physically demanding”, the Head of State added that it was also professionally edifying, politically enlightening, and occupationally satisfying, and the lessons learnt should last them a lifetime.
Citing the Colonel John Clarke Military School, as the gateway for the 270 new soldiers’ profession, President Granger reminded them that they were all called upon to serve with dignity as they uphold the five core values of soldiering.
The President alluded to his book, “The Values and Standards of the GDF”, published some five years ago, stating that it outlines the core values, including, duty, discipline, identity, integrity and loyalty. Other key areas covered in the hand book include the five core standards by which an army rank’s conduct will be measured.
These are the standards of responsibility, of respect for law, respect for others, particularly other citizens and the vulnerable, the standard of correct conduct, and the standard or appropriate social behaviour.
“This little green book is your catechism; it summarises the principles of this important profession and it was designed to fit into your left side breast pocket…it’s a pocket book and it should stay with you throughout your professional career.”
More importantly, the ranks were reminded that in taking their oath to serve, they were doing so for service to their country and not to self, their community, or family.
The Commander-in-Chief told the soldiers that in serving the nation, they must remember at all times that it is a collective effort, as being a soldier is not like being a “lone ranger.”
“That is why your team spirit is most important, that is why when you break the values, when you desecrate the standards of the GDF, that code of conduct, that team spirit, will be shattered, that is when you become a lone ranger.”
While acknowledging the fact that human beings do make mistakes, the Commander-in -Chief said it is for this reason that attitudes, beliefs, education and conduct should matter.
“So your profession of arms as soldiers will be determined to a great extent by your values and standards, attitudes and beliefs.”
Emphasis was also placed on moral forces and intelligence, both of which are basic requirements for the GDF.
Intelligence, the Head of State said, must be a watch word for every soldier, as each rank should at all times seek to acquire knowledge and skills, and to strengthen his/her  capacity to learn and reason.
The newest members of the GDF, who have taken the oath of service, were also reminded of the importance of being industrious.
“Military service is meant to be tough, and only the tough can survive this course; you have to work hard, and another quality is your ability to endure, as this is not the place for quitters, but for those who demonstrate endurance.”
Going forward, the Commander-in-Chief told the soldiers that it is his hope that they will elevate themselves education wise, as his administration is working towards making the state an educated one.
“You must be the best you can be, and this is an opportunity to grasp the bounty of education … we want Guyana to be an educated nation, as there is no reason on earth you must be satisfied at being a private soldier … you must want to improve your status in life.”
Encouraging the soldiers to become more educated, the Commander-in-Chief said the GDF is an excellent platform for many other professions.
Meanwhile, President Granger also took time to present awards to those who completed the Basic Recruit Course with honours.
Awards were given to Marvin Dodson for Best Fitness, Orandy Dawson for Best Drill, Ivor Daniels for Best Shot, and Jamal Johnson for Best Military Knowledge.
The Best Graduating Student Prize went to Carl McKenzie, while the second prize for Best Graduating Student went to Quincy Fraser. (GINA)