THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Senior Leader’s Course Number 13 (SLC 13) on Tuesday came to a close with 15 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) graduating following 17 weeks of intensive training.

The graduation and closing ceremony were held at the Jaguar Lecture Hall, at Training Corps Headquarters, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri.
The SLC trains SNCOs to function as Unit and Sub-Unit Sergeant Majors across the full spectrum of military operations.
According to the GDF, during the course of their training, a number of subjects were covered including communication skills studies, minor staff duties, operational staff work, operations and administration, military law, leadership, drill, training, and environmental studies, management, current affairs, open country warfare (minor tactics), internal security, military ethics among others.

Staff Sergeant (SSGT) Shameka Devonish was adjudged the Best Graduating student, while SSGT Mark Critchlow was the runner-up. Senior Petty Officer Quincy Burton received the prize for Best Service Paper.

Force Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class One Raul Rodney, in his feature address, urged the graduates to be leaders worthy of emulation.
“As you progress in your careers, remember that leadership is about integrity, compassion and vision. It’s about understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your units and empowering each soldier to reach their full potential. It’s about being a mentor, a coach, and a guide to those who look up to you. Seek opportunities to mentor the next generation of leaders because your legacy is what you accomplish and who you inspire,” he urged.