In keeping with the Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King’s vision of focusing on talent management and succession planning members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force showed their gratitude this Thursday in grand style during their annual Thanksgiving Service and Career Transitioning Luncheon Ceremony at HMBS CORAL HARBOUR.
Thirty-two (32) “transitioning veterans” of the RBDF, including some of whom will be retiring within the next few months, were the honored guests at this year’s event. The Minister of National Security, the Honorable Marvin Dames, who brought remarks at the ceremony, thanked them for their services and encouraged the Officers and Marines to be dedicated in their hard work, in spite of the recent hurricanes and pandemics the country is currently facing.
Also, in attendance were Commodore Raymond King; and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Mr. Marco Rolle.
Commodore King commended the Officers and Marines of the Force for their steadfast commitment in the execution of their duties both at sea and ashore. He also thanked the retirees for their long service and providing foundational blocks for future generations of servicemen and servicewomen to build upon. He also encouraged them to be a part of the RBDF Veteran’s Association.
“I am indeed grateful for the distinct honour and pleasure of having served alongside many of you in excess of three decades”, said Commodore King. “Yet, it is a bittersweet moment for this organization to lose such valuable contributions from those among you desirous of transitioning from the service permanently”.
The retired honorees were presented with commemorative plaques and a gift bag on behalf of a grateful force for their intangible contributions. One of the highlights of the day, in the life of the structured force remains the thanksgiving meal.
As dictated by Defence Force tradition, roles are reversed, and Officers (Managers of the Force) put on their aprons and gloves to serve their Enlisted (line staff) staff members, ensuring they are fed and fit for battle, and Minister Marvin Dames also assisted in this effort.
