Leading Seaman Sharif Turnquest joined an elite list of marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, after he was recognized as the Marine of the year 2017 at the force’s Annual Christmas Carol Service at the Defence Force Base.
A total of 14 marines were recognized by their various departments and sub- sections for their outstanding and dedicated services throughout the year. Sharif, a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) in the Training Department was successful in placing first overall as the overall results. He became the latest recipient of the coveted Leon Smith Award. This prize is in honor of the first Bahamian Commodore who headed the Defence Force from 1983 – 1997. Both he and his wife were in attendance to present the award.
“I based my career on some of the positive principles instilled within me by some of my seniors on the Force,” says Turnquest. “A Marine is at his best when no-one is watching; I always dare to stand out in the crowd; I always thrived to maintain a standard; For every action, there are consequences, and once you understand the consequences, you will be careful of your actions.”
Leading Seaman Lashando Greene from the Port Security Department was the 1st runner-up, Able Seaman Delron Mitchell from the Airwing Department was awarded the 2nd runner-up; and Leading Seaman Durant Roker from the Headquarters Department received the 3rd runner-up award.
Minister of National Security, the Honorable Marvin Dames congratulated all the winners via a teleconference as he emphasized his government’s commitment to continue working efficiently with the men and women of the Defence Force. Commodore Tellis Bethel also extended his congratulations to all of the awardees and thanked them for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.
Leading Seaman Turnquest joined the training staff in 2012. Prior to that, he served 8 years in the Commando Squadron Department. He has undergone numerous training locally and internationally. These include the Military Dive, Combat Dive, Physical Training Instructor and the Skill-At-Arms Courses. He also attended the 5th Summit of the Americas. A decorated marine, Turnquest hopes to be an inspiration to others as he continues to fulfill the Defence Force’s mandate in Guarding Our Heritage.
