AT APPROXIMATELY 17:20 hrs on Monday, outgoing Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips officially handed over command of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to his successor, newly-promoted Brigadier George Lewis.Brigadier Phillips, who proceeds on retirement leave today, has put on notice that the military remains in good hands as he called on the nation to view the military as a call to service, rather than an avenue of employment.

The change of command was witnessed by dozens of persons, including President David Granger, acting Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, among other senior Government officials and members of the Disciplined Services. Former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds was also in attendance.

In his farewell speech, Brigadier Phillips, who served the GDF for almost 36 years, expressed appreciation to the former Donald Ramotar Government for selecting him to lead the GDF as its 8th Chief of Staff.

Equally, he expressed appreciation to the APNU+AFC Government for expressing confidence in him as he continued serving as leader of the military, post -May 2015.

“This vote of confidence by both major political grouping in Guyana I consider a fitting testimony to my earlier commitment and promise to the people of Guyana to let professionalism be my guide on assuming the office of Chief-of-Staff on the 17th of September 2013,” he added.

He said prior to assuming command of the Force, he considered himself well prepared for any leadership position within the GDF, including his last post.

Brigadier Phillips noted that he was “fully aware” of the principle purpose of the Army, which he said is to provide the potential for securing the nation, the freedom of the populace and the promotion of national interests.

He said that this captured clearly what is required of the senior leadership of the Army.

Under his tenure, he said that the Army was vigilant and ready to defend defined aggression on the country’s borders, as well as to support the civilian authorities in protecting national interests. He said his term was also one characterised by increased training activities and a high operational tempo.

He also highlighted the GDF’s role and state of readiness for the May 2015 general elections, as well as Local Government Elections earlier this year.

Brigadier Phillips added that the Army was “busy” with contingency planning and reinforcement exercises to better define aggression on the nation’s borders, a point he reiterated as he spoke.

To this end, he called for the immediate acquisition of air and maritime assets to safeguard the country. He said this will assist in greater “domain awareness” over the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as well as ensure a faster operational reach into the hinterland and border areas.

As he noted the substantial numbers of recruits in recent years, he said that “attracting, employing, training and retaining good people remain a critical function of the Guyana Defence Force”.

As the sun set in the distance, Brigadier Phillips expressed appreciation to all officers and ranks who participated in the parade on Monday, as well as his staff who supported him during his time as leader of the military.

He said he always wanted to end his career with energy and flare, and it happened. He quoted author Robert Greene to this effect and applauded the supporting role of his family members, including his wife and children.

Earlier on Monday, President Granger promoted Colonel George Allan Lewis to the rank of Brigadier, before swearing him in as the ninth Chief-of-Staff of the Force.