In keeping with the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King’s strategic intent of developing a professional and high-performance workforce focused on excellence and talent management where well-deserving members were recognized and awarded for their exemplary services.
Leading Seaman Rodney Davis was recognized as the Royal Bahamas Defense Force’s overall Marine of the Year for 2021 and was chosen as this year’s recipient of the Leon Livingston Smith Award at the Annual Christmas Carol Service at the Defence Force Base on December 20, 2021. The force used the ceremony as an opportunity to highlight some of the outstanding marines of the year. After all the presentations were made, fifteen (15) marine seamen, fifteen (15) able seamen, and sixteen (16) leading hands were honored bringing the total to forty-six (46) marines recognized.
Receiving top honors were Leading Seaman Alvin Collie, Able Seaman Robert Wood, and Woman Marine Cydera Parker, who were all awarded as top honourees for their respective rates. All of the top awardees received certificates, awards, and gifts donated by Oaktree Medical and the RBDF Exchange and were chosen by their respective departments and sub-sections for their stellar service throughout 2021.
The Minister of National Security, the Honorable Wayne Munroe Q.C. brought remarks and congratulated all of the winners and emphasized the government’s commitment to continue working efficiently with the organization which was birthed from Sir Lynden Pindling’s vision. Commander Defence Force, Commodore Dr. Raymond King, and his wife Retired Force Chief Petty Officer Fredricka King, the RBDF’s Executive Command Team, and Dr. Don Deveaux and Staff from Oaktree Medical Centre were all in attendance.
Defence Force Chaplain, Prince Bodie gave Christmas remarks. Also in the spirit of the season, Christmas gifts were provided for the children of the serving and retired RBDF members of the Force who were brought to attend the ceremony. The ceremony concluded with a grand display of colors in the ‘Captain’s Rush’ display, which was an internal Junkanoo competition.
The annual service, the spirit of giving, and the celebration is an inspiration as the Force continues to fulfill the mandate in Guarding Our Heritage.(For further information please contact the RBDF Public Relations Department or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and view our Youtube channel) -rbdf-#GuardOurHeritage
