COLONEL Enoch W. Gaskin formally handed over command of the Second infantry Battalion to Colonel Patrick West on July 28 last. The formalisation of the new command occurred at the Change of Command Parade which was held at the battalion’s Headquarters at Base Camp Soweyo.In farewell remarks, the outgoing commander, Colonel Enoch Gaskin, recounted the beginnings of his military career and highlighted many of his experiences as a serviceman.

Colonel Gaskin explained that his association with the military began much earlier than when he enlisted as a Private in the regular component of the Guyana People’s Militia some thirty-six (36) years ago. “I was part of the historic first national reservist training camp. That reservist training had been undertaken in answer to the call to arms to defend (Guyana) against aggression by Guyana’s western neighbour in 1976. That camp was held at Konwaruk National Service Training Centre. It is ironic that my career is coming to an end at a time when that same western neighbour is once again beating war drums and rattling the sabre,” he observed.

Colonel Gaskin said the singular most impacting aspect of his career was his appointment as Chairman of the Joint Services Training Committee. That appointment, he explained, allowed for the building of capacity, and unity in the Joint Services through training.

During his rather illustrious career, Colonel Gaskin held several appointments across the GDF. “My satisfaction, however, has been to selflessly share my knowledge for the improvement of the Force. Sometimes, my interventions were unwelcome, while at other times it was most welcome. My only desire was to contribute to the improvement of the Force, and I think that I did!”

He advised his audience that, “…the GDF is an organisation (in the course of development). Seek always to develop yourselves through self-study and formal opportunities to learn new things. Continue to enjoy the satisfaction of giving service in defence of the State.”

Colonel Gaskin encouraged his successor, Colonel Patrick West, to continue building the Guyana Defence Force Reserves. “Command of the Reserves is indeed a privilege. The Reserves, from a historical time, represent the commitment of our citizens to actively participate in the defence of the state. Continue the task of providing quality leadership to this national pillar!” he admonished.

Colonel Enoch Gaskin hails from Ruby village on the East Bank of Essequibo. He has completed numerous military courses in the course of his career, and is a highly-qualified paratrooper. Colonel Gaskin is also very qualified academically, as he has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees. (Michel Outridge)