–President Ali mourns passing of longstanding servicemen who perished in helicopter crash
–Prime Minister, Vice President express condolences to families, fellow servicemen/women
“I knew each of these individuals personally, and my respect for them was boundless,” were the words of President Dr. Irfaan Ali following the tragic death of five longstanding servicemen of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), who perished in a helicopter crash.

The Head of State in a very personal statement expressed “indescribable heaviness,” while updating the nation on the passing of the men.
The now deceased men, Brigadier Gary Beaton- Project Engineer, GOG; Colonel Michael Shahoud- Commander 1st Infantry Battalion; Lt Col Michael Charles- Pilot; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome – Commanding Officer Reserve Battalion and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan – 31 Special Forces Squadron, were onboard the army’s Bell 412 Army helicopter, which lost signal some 30 miles from Guyana’s borders near Venezuela.

Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Wayne Jackson were also on board and survived the tragic accident.
Around midday on Wednesday, news broke that the Bell 412 army helicopter, piloted by Captain Charles, had gone missing.
The team lead by Colonel Shahoud was visiting troops in the western area of the country’s borders.

“These valiant men met their untimely end when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in the rugged and challenging terrain of our beloved nation amidst treacherous weather conditions,” the President said.
He added: “They were not just military men; they were guardians of our sovereignty, defenders of our values, and champions of our freedom. Their commitment to duty was unwavering, as evidenced by their willingness to embark on missions even in the most treacherous conditions to ensure the safety of our Motherland.”

He described the tragedy as immeasurable and a heavy “blow” to the country’s army.
Their service in the line of duty, he noted, will forever be etched in the annals of the country’s history as a testament to their courage and devotion.

In a message to the families, Dr. Ali said: “I cannot fathom the depth of your grief, but please know that our entire nation mourns with you. Your loved ones, our heroes, will be remembered not only for their sacrifice but for the honour and courage they displayed in service to our country.”
He added: “This loss is immeasurable, and the void they leave behind is vast. These men loved Guyana above all else; they took pride in wearing the uniform that symbolised their dedication to our great nation.”

He urged all Guyanese to spare moments to remember the fallen soldiers as well as to keep their loved ones in prayers.
“In humble reverence, I bow my head and lift their families in prayers during this difficult time,” Dr. Ali said.
Meanwhile Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, said: “As a nation, our hearts are heavy with grief upon learning about the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of five brave soldiers … I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the fallen soldiers, as well as the Guyana Defence Force on the loss of their comrades, offering my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

The former army Chief of Staff also sent comforting words to the surviving soldiers.
He said: “I also extend condolences to the Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, and the entire Guyana Defence Force community. As we mourn this tragic loss, we stand in solidarity with the GDF, sharing in the pain of their grief. Our thoughts are with the leadership and colleagues of the fallen soldiers during this incredibly difficult time. May the Guyana Defence Force find strength, unity, and solace in the memories of these heroes, and may their legacy endure as a symbol of valor within the force.”

Also addressing the country’s loss, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, noted that their service to Guyana will be honoured and remembered.
“In honouring the memory of these valiant soldiers, let us also acknowledge the selflessness and bravery they displayed in the line of duty. Their service to Guyana will be remembered as a testament to their unwavering commitment to the principles of duty, honour, and sacrifice,” he said.
In offering words of condolences to the family, Dr. Jagdeo added: “As you mourn the loss of these heroes, please know that you are not alone. The entire nation joins hands in expressing our deepest sympathies, and we are here to offer any assistance and support that may bring comfort in this challenging time.”