The Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s (RBDF) Rangers Program on the island of Abaco was recently strengthened with the addition of 36 students during a recent Passing out Parade ceremony.
Scores of proud relatives and friends assembled at the government complex, Marsh Harbour to witness the official induction of the young students who successfully completed the training. In attendance at the ceremony were the Honorable Darren Henfield, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for North Abaco; the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel; Miss Maxine Duncombe, Island Administrator; and Mrs. Dominique Russell, District Superintendent of Education.
Following an inspection of the new Rangers Cadets by Commodore Bethel, he congratulated them on behalf of the Honourable Marvin Dames, the Minister of National Security, and himself for successfully completing the intensive 9-month Recruit training program. Commodore Bethel also highlighted some of the activities and achievements of the RBDF Rangers.
“This dynamic program is rapidly transforming into the Rangers National Youth Program focusing on character and leadership development”, said Commodore Bethel. “Moreover, the training curriculum for the Rangers program prepares and exposes Rangers to opportunities in the Defence Force, the commercial maritime sector and entry-level positions in the public and private sectors”.
After a brilliant performance from the Rangers Special Drill Team, the students, who all came from 7 private and public schools in North and Central Abaco, were presented with certificates and awards.
Special Awards included the Minister of National Security Award, which went to Tiana Burrows of Smith’s Memorial Academy, Rangers Director Award was presented to Kerlande Michel of Patrick Bethel High School and the Most Academic Improvement Award was awarded to Wildenero Francois of Patrick Bethel High School.
[gridgallery id=”9875″]
Photos by Marine Seaman Kyle Smith
