…Brigadier Godfrey Bess charges ranks
GUYANA Defence Force Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess, charged ranks to maintain the values of the GDF with a high level of professionalism and highlighted the importance of training, when he made a virtual address to staff on July 2.
In his first address since being named Chief of Staff, Bess emphasised that the Force must continue to improve, and he would do all that he could to ensure that that was done. “We are the guardians of the country’s patrimony. Now, more than ever, given the current political economic and social factors, and at a time when no country is immune to the COVID-19 pandemic, we must strive for excellence, show strength, resilience and extraordinary high level of professionalism in the execution of our duties,” Bess urged.
He added that: “As service men and women of GDF I wish to underscore our purpose and services to the nation. We must protect our citizens and defend the country against all enemies. The GDF has been and will continue to be ready to deter aggression, defend our national sovereignty, and ensure the development of our country as a safe and secure place.”
Bess said the GDF will continue to support of the police in the maintenance of public order. Bess was appointed last June to perform the functions of chief-of-staff, after approval was granted for Chief of Staff, Brigadier Patrick West to proceed on accumulated leave. “I am elated to be at the helm at this time, as Brigadier West, who served admirably enjoys his retirement leave,” Bess conveyed.
Brigadier West’s accumulated leave will conclude in March 2021, at which point Bess would be appointed substantively as chief-of-staff. Bess thanked the members of the GDF for their contributions, but further counselled the ranks to remain alert and remain uncompromising in their integrity and professionalism. “Avoid behaviour that would bring this organisation into disrepute, be abreast with the current situation and I implore you to be professional and prepared at all times. Maintain the values of the GDF, which are duty, discipline, identity, integrity and loyalty. Serve with distinction,” Bess instructed
Bess committed himself to aiming for improvement of the Force, both in its infrastructural developments and human resources advancement. He stressed that training was important. “Training is essential and pillar of a professional and capable Force. It is critical for the accomplishment of military missions, for improvement in operational successes and enhancing physical fortitude. During challenging times, training will ensure the continued growth of the Force resulting in excellent standards and high level of discipline and increased morale,” Bess noted.
Bess underscored that the GDF has done much to increase its national reach and responsiveness, and declared his intentions to continue the Force on its path of development. “I will continue to lead the officers and ranks towards effective transformation within the Force. I will continue to represent the Force on the Guyana Defence Board to ensure we are provided with the necessary resources for both regular and reserved forces to achieve their mission,” he said, adding that: “More importantly, I will engage the instruments of national power to protect Guyana’s integrity and ensure the safety of the citizens. Infrastructure will continue to be improved for the combat units, and combat support units. The force will continue to build on its strong civil relations, which is the core of democracy,” Bess said.
