ONE hundred and eighty-nine recruits of the Guyana Defence Force on Thursday completed the mandatory ten weeks of rigorous training at the Colonel John Clarke Military School at Tacama, Berbice River.This regimen is part of the Basic Recruitment Course of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). Their course commenced with 202 recruits drawn from the various regions in Guyana. The course sought to introduce them to army life, and they were also educated about being obedient, loyal and disciplined.

GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips, told the new soldiers that they are the present and future leaders of the GDF, and they each should go forth and be the best solider they can be.

The Chief of Staff reminded that they should readily conform to the values and standards of the GDF. He said this is in order for them to earn the respect of the Guyanese society.

Additionally, Brigadier Phillips challenged the soldiers to commit themselves to serving the people of Guyana during their deployment, and to support the police in maintenance of public security throughout the country.

He also encouraged the soldiers to make use of the opportunities offered at GDF for their personal and professional development.

“Be it academic education programmes (or) the technical vocational training opportunities that will become available as you continue to serve in the Guyana Defence Force, make the best of it,” Brigadier Phillips admonished.

Soldiers awarded for their performance during the course were as follows: Best Student and Best Shot was awarded to Pte Calvin Doris, with runner-up being Pte Isaiah Rawlins. Best Drill went to Pte Don St Hill; Best Fitness went to Pte Shaquille Smartt, and Best Military Knowledge went to Pte Kemoe Marques.