Defence Headquarters, 16 August, ’24: The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) enhanced its operational readiness through a collaborative partnership with the Rhode Island National Guard from August 12-16, 2024. The joint initiative focused on two key areas: intelligence gathering, information security, and mission planning.
The Rhode Island National Guard contingent was welcomed aboard HMBS Coral Harbour Base by Captain Glenn McPhee. During their visit, the military counterparts toured the RBDF’s Operations Command and other key facilities, gaining valuable insights into the Force’s operations. The team also observed the RBDF’s recruitment process.
Captain Bethel, head of the RBDF’s Communications Branch and lead officer for the Subject Matter Expert Exchange, emphasized the importance of these collaborations. “This partnership allows us to access best practices and elevate our capabilities in critical areas such as information security and strategic mission planning,” Captain Bethel stated.
The exchange program facilitated the sharing of knowledge and expertise between both forces, enabling the RBDF to bolster its capacity to protect the nation’s interests. By working closely with the Rhode Island National Guard, the RBDF is better positioned to address emerging challenges and contribute effectively to regional security.
The visit culminated in a meeting between the Rhode Island National Guard team and Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King, at Defence Headquarters on John F. Kennedy Drive. This high-level engagement underscored the significance of the partnership and the shared commitment to strengthening regional security.
“This initiative aligns directly with Commodore Raymond King’s vision for the RBDF,” Captain Bethel added. “As we strive to modernize our operations and expand our capabilities, partnerships like this are instrumental in achieving our goals.”
The RBDF under the leadership of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond E. King, is dedicated to the transformation of Defence Force personnel’s quality and capabilities. This commitment is rooted in the pursuit of excellence in leadership, which is demonstrated through professionalism. We strive to cultivate a High-Performance Workforce focused on Performance Excellence, fostering an inclusive working environment that empowers our personnel. Through meaningful involvement of service members, we share the responsibility for accomplishing the Defence Force’s Mandate.