In keeping with the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Dr. Raymond King’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships and relationships with our regional partners against transnational threats, representatives of OPBAT accepted an invitation for a courtesy call on Captain SOUTHERN COMMAND at HMBS Matthew Town on 16 June, 2022.The objective of the Courtesy Call was to build on mutual rapport, specifically in the Southern Bahamas. In attendance were Lt. Brandon Showers, Lt. Samuel Hutchinson, Lt. David Tolosa, Lt. Blake Brostrom, CPO Clint Johnson, CPO Onassis Ferguson, PO Durell Coleby, L/S Abrian Rankine and W/M Shonique Thompson. Captain Glenn McPhee was presented with a USCG Air Station Clearwater insignia as he presented a copy of his latest book: The Marine Recruit’s Guide. Chief Petty Officer Onassis Ferguson facilitated a tour of the Maritime Centre and the Safe Boat, while, Chief Petty Officer Clint Johnson facilitated a tour of the Base. OPBAT’s Director, CDR David Sheppard said The USCG recognizes such visits as conducive to more efficient, productive, and successful operations in the Southern Region. Partnerships benefit when operators have the opportunity to tour facilities and garner a better understanding of each other’s capabilities, and to discuss current operational synergies. USCG crews have extended the invitation for the current and soon to be appointed Captain SOUTHERN COMMAND to tour the Inagua base to further the cooperation between the two lead maritime organizations supporting operations throughout the area, and to strengthen the community between their members.As the world continues to develop as a global community, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force values the relationships of our regional and international partners and their strategic contributions as we safeguard the territorial integrity of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.The HMBS Matthew Town Deployment Team is currently led by FCPO Mr. Bursil Daxon and the Chief Petty Officer Onassis Ferguson is the Safe Boat Coxswain.The SOUTHERN COMMAND’s Mission: To ensure continuity of administration, operations and logistical support for all RBDF missions originating, transitioning through or around the southern Bahamas.
