AS ensigns of the Standard Officer Course 52 prepare for their ceremonial rite of passage into ‘officership’, Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess recently engaged them for a discourse on reflections and impressions.
The activity allowed for a smooth flow of interaction between the Chief-of-Staff and the potential officers; they were engaged individually to relate their most impactful moments and lessons during training.

Ensign Ralph Williams, aged 21, believes that the two years of training has taught him valuable lessons which will benefit him in every aspect of his life. He has dedicated himself to being a motivation and role model to the troops he will command.
Ensign Mauro Cucul, also aged 21, of the Belize Coast Guard, is thankful for undergoing his officer training in Guyana. The course has enabled him with, among other valuable attributes, the ability to think under pressure.

“In real situations in operations, we will have to think fast and under pressure, and make the best possible decisions in those circumstances,” he stated. He also spoke about the core value of identity, which demands that all military members wear their uniform proudly, as their positive identity contributes to the public confidence in the Force.
Ensign Javid Mohammed, of the Guyana Fire Service, is the course senior, and this, he said, enabled him to practice one of the essential variables, command and control.
The three ensigns are among 16 who are completing training on the Standard Officer Course 52.

Brigadier Bess told the ensigns that while the training has provided them with the foundation and necessary skills to command and be leaders in their respective organisations, it is essential for them to continue investing in themselves to enjoy a fruitful and rewarding career.
The Chief-of-Staff was impressed with the ensigns and urged them to take seriously the position of trust and leadership entrusted to them.

“You have made the decision to become leaders, and you committed yourself to completing this course. You defied the odds in the face of a pandemic. I can assure all of you that you have made a good career choice,” said Brigadier Bess.
The Standard Officer Course 52 commenced on June 28, 2019. Sixteen out of the 40 who commenced training have so far withstood the rigorousness of the course.

Two are from the Belize Coast Guard, two each from the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, and St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, and one from the Guyana Fire Service, and another from the Guyana Prison Service. The remainder will serve in the Guyana Defence Force.