“ZADOK Ministers Fellowship extends condolences to the families of the Guyana Defence Force Officers, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan, who lost their lives in the course of duty in a helicopter accident in Essequibo on December 6, 2023.

“We pray that Almighty God would grant the families of the deceased peace and solace during this difficult time. May God’s love surround you and provide you with strength and comfort in the days ahead.

“We thank God for the two servicemen who survived, Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson. We pray for their good health, and full recovery and for their act of bravery and resilience to be celebrated.

“Zadok Ministers Fellowship mourns with the nation during this difficult time, and we take courage from the words of Psalm 23:4. ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.’ May Almighty God comfort the entire nation of Guyana during this difficult time.

“May the courage and bravery of these five Guyanese patriots who performed their duty in the most challenging weather conditions, inspire us as a nation to be better, united, and stronger. God bless this beautiful nation of strong Guyanese who are spread across 83,000 square miles.

“Our prayers and solidarity are with His Excellency and Commander-in-Chief, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Chief of Staff, Officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, all members of the Joint Services, with all Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora.”