Our nation is in mourning. The tragic loss of five of our finest servicemen in a helicopter crash has left us heartbroken and deeply saddened. Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan were more than just soldiers; they were heroes who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our nation.

Let us stand together in unity during this difficult time. This Sunday, December 10th, Government will dedicate a Day of Prayer and Reflection to honour the memory of our fallen heroes.
Join hands with your fellow citizens, regardless of faith or background, to offer prayers for the departed souls and their families. This day will also serve as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave men and express our deepest gratitude for their dedication to duty.

May their service inspire us all to act with courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our nation. Let us remember their families in our thoughts and prayers, and offer them the support they need during this unimaginable time of grief.

As a nation, we must also provide comprehensive support to the families of the fallen servicemen, including financial assistance, mental health counselling, and educational opportunities for their children.

This tragedy also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by our servicemen and women. We must never forget the risks they take to ensure our safety and security. We must also acknowledge the ongoing threat posed by Venezuela and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to defending our territorial integrity and sovereignty.

While we mourn the loss of our heroes, we must also look to the future with courage and determination. Let us honour their memory by continuing to strive for a better, safer, and more prosperous Guyana. Together, we will overcome this tragedy and emerge stronger than ever before.

This tragedy unfolds against the backdrop of heightened tensions with Venezuela, a neighbor asserting unjust claims to Guyana’s Essequibo region. In the face of adversity, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Guyana’s Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has assured the nation that our Co-operative Republic stands resolute in defending itself. International allies have pledged support, condemning Venezuela’s actions and urging adherence to the Rule of Law and decisions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The ill-fated Bell 412 helicopter, carrying the five servicemen, was en route to support troops near the Guyana-Venezuela border when it crashed in an isolated, densely forested area. The subsequent 48 hours witnessed commendable efforts to locate and extract the military personnel, despite the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.

The search-and-rescue mission, executed by highly trained experts and supported by a determined team, showcased the unwavering commitment of individuals willing to risk their lives for the country and its citizens.

Despite the difficulties posed by the inaccessible terrain of Guyana’s interior, the response highlighted the nation’s capability to handle emergencies, albeit underscoring the need for continued investment in resources and equipment.

This tragedy has touched the hearts of all Guyanese. Let us use this opportunity to come together in unity, to remember our heroes, and to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. May the creator of the universe keep us strong and protect us and our beloved motherland.

Together, let us uplift each other in spirit, finding comfort in our collective resilience and shared commitment to a brighter future for Guyana.